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Features
Shells found on Florida beaches range from tiny, iridescent jingles that are usually no bigger than one and a half inches across, to the state seashell known as the horse conch, which can be as large as 24 inches in length.
Fighting Conch
Among the most common seashells in Florida, especially on Sanibel Island, is the fighting conch. A fighting conch can be up to four inches in size and range in color from white with streaks of tan to coral with swirls of amber.
King's Crown Shell
King's crown shells are aptly named, as the top of the shell resembles a crown. The shell, which can be up to four inches in length, makes an ideal "palace" for the hermit crab. King's crown shells are usually found in oyster beds and mangroves.
Junonia Shell
Junonia shells are generally found offshore, but are sometimes found on Florida beaches. Junonia shells can be up to five inches long and are white with uniformly spaced brown spots.
Murex Shells
Five types of murex shells can be found in Florida. The spiny apple murex features thick and thin ribs with variegated shades of white, tan and brown. The apple murex is found only in South Florida and the Keys. Rose murex shells have a smooth pink interior with an ornate, but rough exterior.
Lion's Paw
Lion's paw shells are fan-shaped shells that comes in bright colors of orange, coral and crimson, and can be as large as six inches across. Lion's paw shells are hard to find on beaches. The best chance to find one is after a storm.