Operculum Collection

Silver Mouth Turban (Turbo argyrostomus), whole shell, and shown next to it the inner side of the shells operculum

Sunburst star turban shell (Astraea heliotropium), top and underside view and outer side of operculum

Gastropods - Cirsotrema: Cirsotrema lamellosum (Wentletrap shell), Pliocene era

Music Volute (Voluta musica) shells and and two operculum

Opeatostoma pseudodon, overhead and underside view of Thorn Latirus shell and Operculum, solid squat shell, inflated body whorl, with light and dark brown, white stripes

Shinbone tibia (Tibia fusus) shells and operculum

Tuba false fusus shell (Hemifusus tuba), shells and operculum

Pear Melongena (Volema paradisiaca) and operculum

Snail, SEM
Snail. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a laver spire snail (Hydrobia ulvae). The snail can seal itself inside its shell by pulling a plug (brown) over its operculum (lower right)

Snail opening, SEM
Snail opening. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the closed operculum (opening) of a laver spire snail (Hydrobia ulvae)

Tadpole metamorphosis. Tadpole of the common frog (Rana temporaria). This tadpole is at the four leg stage (twelve weeks)

Vermetid worm colony. Vermetid worms, or worm snails, (Dendropoma maxima) are a species of seal snail gastropod. Vermetid gastropods are unusual snails in that they secrete the calcareous tube in

Moss spore capsule, light micrograph
Moss spore capsule, polarised light micrograph. Longitudinal section through a spore capsule from a fire moss (Funaria hygrometrica)

Chicken body louse eggs, SEM
Chicken body louse eggs. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the eggs of a chicken body louse (family Menoponidae) cemented to the base of a chicken tail feather

Young frog at 8 weeks. Tadpole of the common frog (Rana temporaria) in its two leg stage of development. The back legs are developing, but the tail is still the primary means of locomotion

Young frog at 12 weeks. Tadpole of the common frog (Rana temporaria) in its four leg stage of development. The front legs have broken through the operculum (gill flap)

Young frog at 10 weeks. Tadpole of the common frog (Rana temporaria) in its two leg stage of development. The back legs have developed, but the tail is still the primary means of locomotion

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"Exploring the Intricate World of Operculum: A Journey Through Gastropods and Their Shells" Delve into the fascinating world of operculum, a unique feature found in various gastropod shells. In this captivating journey, we encounter remarkable specimens from different eras and regions. First, we are introduced to Cirsotrema lamellosum, a beautiful Wentletrap shell hailing from the Pliocene era. Its intricate patterns and delicate structure leave us in awe. Next to it lies the inner side of its operculum, adding another layer of complexity to its design. Moving on, we discover the Silver Mouth Turban (Turbo argyrostomus), with its whole shell displaying an enchanting spiral shape. Beside it rests the operculum, revealing a mesmerizing texture that complements its outer beauty. Our exploration continues with the Music Volute (Voluta musica) shells accompanied by two operculums. The vibrant colors and elegant curves of these shells captivate our senses while their accompanying operculums provide insight into their protective mechanisms. As we venture further, we encounter the Sunburst star turban shell (Astraea heliotropium). Both top and underside views showcase its striking appearance while highlighting an intricately designed outer side of its operculum. Next up is Opeatostoma pseudodon, showcasing an overhead and underside view of Thorn Latirus shell alongside its solid squat shell-shaped operculum. The contrasting light and dark brown stripes against a white background create a visually stunning combination. Continuing our expedition through diverse species, we come across Shinbone tibia (Tibia fusus) shells accompanied by their corresponding operculums. These specimens display intriguing shapes and textures that evoke curiosity about their origins. Further along our journey lies Tuba false fusus shell (Hemifusus tuba), presenting both shells and operculum.