Giant Shingle Sea Urchin Shell (Colobocentrotus atratus) – Rare Helmet Urchin Test for Coastal Display & Scientific Collections

Helmet Urchin | Shingle Urchin | Indo-Pacific Volcanic Shore Species | Collector & Wholesale Supply

$7.00

Description

What’s Included

  • Quantity: 1 natural sea urchin shell (test)

  • Size Range: Approx. 2.5–4.5 inches (≈ 6–11.5 cm)

Shell Type

  • Common Name: Giant Shingle Urchin / Helmet Urchin

  • Scientific Name: Colobocentrotus atratus

  • Class: Echinoidea

  • Family: Echinometridae

Origin

Colobocentrotus atratus inhabits high-energy intertidal zones across the Indo-Pacific, particularly on volcanic rocky shorelines. It is uniquely adapted to withstand extreme wave action.

Appearance & Natural Features

Giant Shingle Urchin shells are highly distinctive and prized for:

  • Thick, flattened “helmet-like” dome shape

  • Dense, plate-like tubercles instead of long spines

  • Natural dark violet, deep purple, charcoal, or gray tones

  • Extremely solid, heavy structure compared to most urchins

Each specimen is naturally unique in color intensity, surface texture, and dome height.

Uses & Applications

This rare Helmet Urchin shell is ideal for:

  • Scientific and educational collections

  • Museum and academic displays

  • Cabinet of curiosities & natural history décor

  • Coastal, maritime, and volcanic-themed interiors

  • High-end shell collections and specialty retail

Due to its rarity and unusual morphology, this species is best displayed as a stand-alone collector specimen.

Natural Product Disclaimer

  • Photos show representative examples, not the exact shell

  • Natural variation in color, size, and surface texture is expected

  • Minor edge wear or natural erosion may occur from ocean conditions

Bulk & Wholesale Orders

We supply rare echinoderms and specialty shells to professional buyers, including:

  • Museums & educational institutions

  • Shell collectors & specialty retailers

  • Interior designers & stylists

  • Coastal décor brands & scientific suppliers

📧 Email: cyan@seashell-supply.com
💬 Or simply send us a message to discuss your needs.

Every seashell is a gift from the ocean, and I pack each one with the care it deserves, ensuring its safe journey to you.

  • Preparation Time: I will carefully wrap your seashells in recycled paper and twine within 1-3 business days, making it feel like a personal gift from the sea.

  • Shipping Method: I use reliable standard shipping and will provide you with a tracking number, so you can follow your shell’s journey.

  • International Orders: For shells traveling across oceans, please allow a little extra time. Sometimes customs checks can extend their journey.

The ocean never creates two identical shells, making the one you receive truly one-of-a-kind.

  • Damaged in Transit: If your shell is damaged during its journey, please contact me within 24 hours of receipt with a photo. I will immediately send a replacement or issue a full refund.

  • Not as Described: I do my best to represent each shell accurately through photos and descriptions. If you feel your shell is significantly different from what was described, please contact me within 7 days, and we will find a thoughtful solution.

  • A Note on “Change of Mind”: As each shell is a natural, unique item, I cannot accept returns or exchanges due to a “change of mind.” Please review the photos and dimensions carefully to ensure it’s the perfect “ocean companion” for you.

We are deeply committed to sustainable and ethical practices. All our shells are sourced responsibly—never from live-shelled creatures. We support marine conservation efforts and maintain transparency about our sourcing practices.

Unlike most sea urchins, Colobocentrotus atratus evolved flattened, armored spines that act like suction cups, allowing it to cling tightly to rocks in some of the roughest wave zones on Earth.

It is considered one of the most structurally specialized sea urchins in the world.