Bioluminescent Clusterwink Snails
The tiny Clusterwink Snail (Hinea brasiliana) has evolved a unique method of deterring potential predators: it flashes them! It’s not what you think; these marine snails have evolved light-producing organs on their bodies that flash a surprising burst of blue-green light when the snail is either directly disturbed or when known predators are nearby.
The marine snails appear quite ordinary by day and their spiraling shells look opaque but appearances can deceive, as the shells are relatively translucent in certain areas of the blue-green spectrum that match the wavelength of light produced by the snails’ bioluminescent organs. This way, the snail can flash its enemies, Rear Window style, while remaining safely ensconced inside its shell.
Murex, Snails To Dye For
Tyrian Purple and Royal Blue… these ancient and valuable dyes traditionally associated with ancient aristocrats and the sea-faring Phoenician civilization were sourced from two species of the Murex rock snail: Haustellum brandaris and Hexaplex trunculus, respectively. Exactly how the Phoenicians were able to ensure their Tyrian Purple dyed cloth remained colorfast is one of the unsolved mysteries of the ancient world.
Murex snails are no longer used for dye and it’s just as well: an estimated 10-12,000 Murex snails were required to produce a single gram of indigo blue dye! The snails aren’t off the hook completely, however, as they’re harvested for food in some areas of coastal Portugal.
