> I am just looking at the only Conus violaceus I have ever found, from a
> beach in Zamboanga, Philippines. Its dorsum is perfect, but there is a
> large hole on the ventrum, and the interior coils (except for the last one)
> are entirely missing. It's not much good as a specimen shell, but as an
> example of resorption, it's excellent.
> http://www.flickr.com/photos/28722516@N02/4111783543/


I'd say the total loss of the inner walls is due to mechanical damage
caused by whatever broke the outer wall, or else happened after the
outer break. A Conus which resorbed its inner walls completely would
run the severe risk of slicing-up its own innards when extending or
retracting itself.

--
Regards
Andrew Grebneff
Dunedin
New Zealand
Fossil preparator
Mollusc, Toyota & VW van fan

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