Chestnut cowry, Cypraea spadicea
Most people's experience with cowries is limited to seeing napkin holders
fashioned from the tiger cowries found in the south pacific. Thankfully for
them, chestnut cowries (Cypraea spadicea) are a little small for use in a
table setting. While I find their exposed mantle and polished shell interesting,
I seldom shoot pictures of them since they seem to have an affinity for boring
backgrounds. This one was kind enough to pose with some Corynactis
californica and a bright red sponge.
"Granite Point Wall", Carmel Bay, California
April 2, 2006
