Author: Hiroshi Takashige / Photos: Satoshi Takei
[A groundbreaking illustrated guide featuring ecological and specimen photos for all 827 species of shells found in Japan]
For many, shells might evoke images of beautiful keepsakes, symbols of the ocean, or perhaps even food. However, the waters surrounding Japan are home to an estimated 110,000 diverse species of shells.
This book is an "illustrated guide to shells" that selects 827 species inhabiting the seas of Japan, focusing on the temperate regions of central Honshu.
It primarily introduces marine gastropods and bivalves that can be observed during activities like rock pooling, clam digging, and scuba diving.
The greatest feature of this book is that ecological photos of live shells in their underwater environment and photos of their shell specimens are included for almost all species. We have made it easy to visualize the appearance and life of live shells on the seabed. We have also included close-up photos of the aperture, eyes, and tentacles of living shells, which are not usually seen, making it a valuable resource for identification.
This is a new shell encyclopedia that allows for a more comprehensive understanding of shells as marine organisms.
*This book is a new edition of "Shells of Japan," published in January 2019, with 112 pages added and 198 species included based on updated information and classifications.
[A groundbreaking illustrated guide featuring ecological and specimen photos for all 827 species of shells found in Japan]
For many, shells might evoke images of beautiful keepsakes, symbols of the ocean, or perhaps even food. However, the waters surrounding Japan are home to an estimated 110,000 diverse species of shells.
This book is an "illustrated guide to shells" that selects 827 species inhabiting the seas of Japan, focusing on the temperate regions of central Honshu.
It primarily introduces marine gastropods and bivalves that can be observed during activities like rock pooling, clam digging, and scuba diving.
The greatest feature of this book is that ecological photos of live shells in their underwater environment and photos of their shell specimens are included for almost all species. We have made it easy to visualize the appearance and life of live shells on the seabed. We have also included close-up photos of the aperture, eyes, and tentacles of living shells, which are not usually seen, making it a valuable resource for identification.
This is a new shell encyclopedia that allows for a more comprehensive understanding of shells as marine organisms.
*This book is a new edition of "Shells of Japan," published in January 2019, with 112 pages added and 198 species included based on updated information and classifications.
Released August 10, 2026
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New Edition: Shells of Japan | Seibundo Shinkosha Publishing Co., Ltd. (seibundo-shinkosha.net)