The document lists and describes 16 of the most popular seashells found on the Gulf Coast of Florida, including the Baby's Ear, Banded Tulip, Clam Shell, Coquina Clam Shells, Cowry Shell, Florida Fighting Conch, Lightning Whelk, Lined Moon Snail Shell, Murex Seashell, Oyster Shell, Ribbed Cantharus Shell, Scallop Shell, Scotch Bonnet Shell, and Turret Shells. Each seashell is briefly characterized by its distinctive physical features and appearance. The document concludes by asking the reader to identify their favorite seashell.

1. The Most Popular Seashells
on the Gulf Coast of Florida

2. Baby’s Ear
Almost flat with a large aperture, or opening, and a curve like a
human ear.

3. Banded Tulip
A spindle-shaped univalve with a long siphonal canal, elevated spire
and distinct sutures.

4. Clam Shell
The shells of bivalves commonly wash up on beaches often as
separate valves.

5. Coquina Clam Shells
Bivalves known for their highly variable color patterns, found in the
swash zone of the beach.

6. Cowry Shell
Look for a smooth, shiny exterior with varied color patterns.

7. Florida Fighting Conch
A golden caramel-colored gastropod shell touched with white.

8. Lightning Whelk
Off-white to tan or gray shell with narrow, brown "lightning"
streaks from the top of the shell to the bottom.

9. Lined Moon Snail Shell
Usually round, smooth and broad with short spires.

10. Murex Seashell
Most have spines or ribs and a lengthened canal on one end.

11. Oyster Shell
Can be highly calcified, and many are somewhat irregular in shape.

12. Ribbed Cantharus Shell
Up to 31 mm with pointed spire, aperture less than half shell length.

13. Scallop Shell
Found in shallow seagrass beds in the coastal areas of Florida.

14. Scotch Bonnet Shell
So named because of its resemblance to the caps worn by Scottish
peasants.

15. Turret Shells
Look for convex whorls and spiral coils, with a circular aperture.

16. What’s your favorite?