Perhaps that is why you don't see them - they are too heavy to bring
in.  I was truly amazed, and I assure you my measurement was correct.
 
Sylvia
 
Paul Monfils wrote:
>
> Hello Sylvia,
> I am certain the Strombus gigas you found was a true monster -
> especially given that your judgement is based on direct observation
> of far more specimens than I have seen.  Still . . . a specimen of 18
> inches (450 mm) would exceed the known world record size by a full 4
> inches!  Even Strombus goliath, the largest member of the family,
> rarely exceeds 15 inches (the record is 380 mm).  In any case, it
> does sound like the specimen you found would have been a true trophy,
> had it been collectable!
> Regards,
> Paul M.