SEA SHELL TREASURES FROM THE SEA

Can you say Malacology?

You no doubt heard of the Jewel of the Nile, however we have jewels in our own back yard! The joy of living or visiting the beaches of the Florida Gulf Coast provides many intiquing benefits.

Malacology is the branch of invertebrate zoology that deals with the study of the Mollusca (mollusks or molluscs), the second-largest phylum of animals in terms of described species after the arthropods with conchology being the study of their shells.

You may discover hundreds of different shells on Fort Myers Beach with a myriad of color and textures, from scallops to exotic looking tulip shells. The Science Center Shell and Beach Exhibit presents many of these locally found shells. Our docents can help you identify the gastropods and bivalves together with other mysterious artifacts such as the "Mermaids Purse". Children enjoy NAME THAT SHELL game. See if you can find the horse Conch, Junonia, Lightning Whelk, Cockle, Scallops, Murex, Tulip, Olive, and Coquina. Be sure to pick up an affordable Shell Guide to take with you at the beach.