Green Turban, Turbo marmoratus

Found in the Indian and tropical west Pacific Oceans, these large marine snails are a traditional source of food in island communities. Tools and ornaments made from their thick shells are known from prehistoric sites in many parts of the Pacific, and their fine mother-of-pearl is still favored for inlay work, especially in Korea and Japan. The operculum, a trap door that seals the shell when the animal retreats inside, is thick and heavy.