Papustyla (Papuina) Pulcherrima Beautiful & Large 40mm Shell Papua New Guinea

Papustyla (Papuina) Pulcherrima specimen with beautiful and vibrant green color. From Manus Island, Papua New Guinea.

These green tree snails from only Manus Island in the South Pacific ocean are one of only a few molluscs that have shells the color of vivid leaf-green. These beautiful land snails live high in the forest canopy, where they feed on detritus of fungi and moss that grow on trees. Their color, however, is not from the food they eat, but it comes purely from their genetics. Once the shells became popular in the 1930s, demand for them grew, and, as a result, the species is in danger of extinction.

They are also endangered from the destruction of their habitat through forest clearance. This specimen is from an old collection, and has outstanding color compared to the specimens on the market today. It makes a jaw-dropping addition to any collection.

Don't miss your chance on this beautiful shell! Some description sourced from page 73 of the book Fascinating Shells by Andreia Salvador.

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