Seashells are the hard, protective exoskeletons of marine mollusks such as snails, clams, and oysters. These creatures secrete calcium carbonate from their bodies to build and expand their shells as they grow. When mollusks die, their shells often wash up on beaches, creating the beautiful variety of shells we collect.

Seashells come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Some common types include:

1. Gastropod shells (e.g., conch, whelk) – spiral-shaped shells from snails.

2. Bivalve shells (e.g., clams, oysters) – two-part shells that hinge together.

3. Scaphopod shells (tusk shells) – tube-like shells from deep-sea mollusks.

The unique patterns and structures of seashells help these creatures survive by offering camouflage, protection, and even aiding movement.

Seashells play a vital role in coastal ecosystems. When left on beaches, they provide homes for small marine creatures like hermit crabs. Over time, broken shells break down into sand, helping maintain beach stability. In the ocean, shells contribute to coral reef structures and serve as a source of calcium for other organisms.

Some seashells can produce pearls when a foreign substance gets trapped inside and is coated with layers of nacre.

1. The loud “ocean sound” you hear in a seashell is actually the echo of ambient noise, not the ocean itself.
2. Ancient cultures used seashells as currency, jewelry, and even musical instruments.
3. The largest seashell belongs to the giant clam (Tridacna gigas), which can grow over 4 feet wide!