This beautiful Fasciolaria tulipa f. scheepmakeri was personally collected while commercial lobster fishing aboard my vessel, the F/V AVA PILAR. It was recovered alive from a baited lobster trap set in 220–240 feet on Pulley Ridge, west of the Dry Tortugas, Florida. Measuring 178.0 mm (7.01”), this specimen retains its original operculum and displays outstanding natural coloration and a beautiful, glossy aperture.
The rich orange and cream pattern, strong overall form, and excellent preservation make this a highly desirable collector specimen from one of Florida’s most productive deep-water shelling grounds.
Specimen Data
- Family: Fasciolariidae
- Species: Fasciolaria tulipa f. scheepmakeri Kobelt, 1875
- Location: Pulley Ridge, Dry Tortugas, Florida
- Depth: 220–240 ft.
- Method: Live taken by baited lobster trap
- Collection Date: February 2026
- Collector: Randy D. Rivera – F/V AVA PILAR
- Measures: 178.0 mm (7.01”)
- Operculum: Present
- TSC #: #0871FAS-TSC
HMS-ISGS Grade
Fine Quality (FQ)
Condition
This live-taken specimen is graded Fine Quality (FQ) under the HMS-ISGS Shell Grading Standard. It retains its original operculum and exhibits excellent natural color, strong gloss, and an outstanding aperture. Minor handling wear consistent with commercial deep-water trap collection may be present but does not detract from the shell’s exceptional display quality.
Please review all photographs carefully, as they are part of the description and represent the exact specimen you will receive.
Shipping
Your specimen will be carefully packaged and shipped with tracking to ensure it arrives safely. Combined shipping is always available on multiple purchases whenever possible.
Thank you for supporting Tortugas Shell Collection, where every specimen is personally collected from the deep waters of the Dry Tortugas and honestly graded using the HMS-ISGS Shell Grading Standard.