Large shell Melo umbilicatus

The Melo umbilicatus shell is a large and distinctive marine shell that belongs to the family Volutidae, commonly known as volutes. It is closely related to other Melo species, such as Melo melo (the Indian volute or bailer shell), and is valued for its size, color, and historical use in indigenous cultures.

Overview of Melo umbilicatus

• Common names: Umbilicate bailer shell, or simply Melo shell
• Taxonomy:
• Genus: Melo
• Species: umbilicatus
• Family: Volutidae

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Can grow up to 45 cm in length, though typically smaller than Melo melo.
• Shape: Ovate (egg-shaped) and smooth, with a broad body whorl and large aperture.
• Color: Pale orange to yellowish-brown, sometimes with darker streaks or bands.
• Umbilicus: Named for the visible umbilicus (a deep central depression on the underside of the shell), which distinguishes it from other Melo species.

Habitat and Distribution

• Range: Found primarily in the Indo-Pacific region, including coastal waters of Northern Australia, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and parts of Southeast Asia.
• Habitat: Prefers sandy or muddy sea bottoms, typically in shallow waters.

Cultural and Practical Uses

• Traditional use as a bailer: Indigenous peoples of Australia and Oceania have historically used the shell to bail water out of canoes, hence the term "bailer shell".
• Ornamental value: Collected for its beauty and sometimes used in shell art or decoration.
• Rarity: Less commonly found than Melo melo, making it more sought after by collectors.

Summary

The Melo umbilicatus is a large, elegant shell species prized for both its aesthetic and traditional functional uses. With its broad, smooth form and distinctive umbilicus, it remains a favorite among marine shell collectors and carries cultural significance in regions where it occurs.

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