Hobbies And Interests
Features
Shells, or exoskeletons, are made of calcium-carbonate, which is a substance produced by sea animals' fleshy mantles. As the animal grows, so does the size of its shell.
Identification
Sea shells come in a variety of textures and colors. Some shells have ridges, while others are smooth and glossy; some are solid-colored, while others feature spots and other patterns.
Types
Mollusks, or the invertebrate animals that produce shells, are divided into two main categories. Univalves are animals with one shell, for example conchs; bivalves such as clams have two shells.
Function
In addition to providing the animal with shape and rigidity, its shell protects an animal from predators by camouflaging it.
Habitat
One can find shells anywhere where mollusks live, including the ocean, streams, rivers, mangrove areas and on land.
Uses
Different cultures use sea shells for a variety of purposes. While the animal inside the shell often serves as food, uses for empty shells include decorations for the home and jewelry.