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Chiton Sometimes known as the "Coat of Mail" shell due to the resemblance of the interlocking plates of its shell to a medieval suit of armour. Size to a about 3cm. |
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Top shell Most likely to be seen by divers when feeding on kelp or other seaweeds. |
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Whelk
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Great scallop (clam) (Pecten maximus)
Queen scallop
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The largest of the related species and origin of many a shell ashtray. It has one flat half and one rounded half to the shell and lies with the flat side uppermost (Note this is the origin of the "Shell" oil company logo) A slightly smaller species with equally curved halves to the shell. This is much more active than the larger species. A comical sight when disturbed they will use rapid opening and closing of their shell to jet away from danger. This may be the first indication to the unwary diver that they are (were) present. |
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Saddle oyster |
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Horse Mussel |
A very large species on occasion reaching up to about 6" in length |
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Common mussel |
The standard mussel seen on the seashore. |
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Turret shell Found on soft mud, often in very large numbers. |
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Limpet |
The common form is well known from childhood playing on beaches and rocks. On occasion you can identify the trail which they have left during their grazing of algae on the rock face. |
