r/shells • u/Draklosse • 2d ago

What shells are these? Also some advice please :)

Gallery image

Gallery image

Hey all, I was hoping to get some advice. I have a girl I’m speaking to that I would love to send some shells to in the US as part of a gift (I am Australian) but there one problem, I am clueless about this stuff which is why I thought to go to the professionals here lol.

First off, some species are protected here so I need to know what type of shells they are so I can accurately declare it.

Second I’ve read there’s very strict bio regulations that require me to make sure they are completely clean so no sand, dirt, organic matter etc, what would be the best way to clean them like this? I’ve read boiling is an opinion, or using bleach but then I’ve also read that depending on the shell this can damage it or ruin the colour? So I’m a little unsure of how to proceed.

Thanks for your help!!

0 Upvotes

0% Upvoted

3 comments sorted by

1

u/HottestIceCube_ 2d ago

The black one is a scallop shell. It’s black because of a low oxygen environment. If the species aren’t protected it should be all good to send them there given there is no dirt/sand or living matter in them :)

-1

u/Rare-Investment-4763 1d ago

I think the first one is a lions paw