Charonia tritonis – Giant Triton – 374 mm Charonia...

Great natural specimen of Charonia tritonis from Madagascar, characterized by a highly developed spire, a slender silhouette and a large opening with a strong visual impact. With dimensions of 374 × 184 × 136 mm and a weight of 764 grams, this shell belongs to the large specimens of the species. The external surface is crossed by numerous spiral ribs and growth lines, on which a very marked pattern develops in cream, ivory, honey and dark brown tones. The more intense bands follow the Shell's reliefs, creating a rhythmic and almost graphic motif. Particularly spectacular is the large flared opening, with an interior in shades of orange and warm red, framed by a light edge crossed by pronounced brown striations. Charonia tritonis belongs to the family Charoniidae and is one of the largest predatory gastropods of the Indo-Pacific. It is also known for preying on echinoderms, including the crown-of-thorns starfish, Acanthaster. An interesting curiosity concerns the English name Triton’s Trumpet: in several cultures the large shells of Charonia have been used as natural trumpets, modifying the apex of the spire to obtain a wind instrument with a deep and powerful sound. A specimen of strong presence, particularly suitable for malacological collections, Wunderkammer, natural history cabinets and high-quality decorative environments.

Estimate:£272.29

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