Natural History

This stunning Victorian-style table tray features two large valves of Pecten subnodosus, a species of scallop commonly known as the Giant Lion's Paw. Native to the Pacific and Gulf of California coasts of the Baja California Peninsula, Mexico, extending southward to the western coast of Peru. These specimens originate from Baja California, USA. This species is edible.

Mounted in a Victorian style with one Carnelian cabochon and four Amethyst cabochons, all set in a nickel plated base.

A vertical branch of Yellow Gorgonian with a special shape, taken by divers from Java, Indonesia. 

The gorgonians live between 20 and 100 meters deep in vertical walls. Like corals, gorgonians are animals living in sessile colonial polyps organized in a tree shape. Its structure is a skeleton both soft and hard, called gorgonine and they do not grow in the direction of the sun but perpendicular to the current in order to filter a maximum of waterflow. Displayed in a dark brass base, turned into a unique décor item. 

Goliathus orientalis, flawlessly preserved within a glass dome. This majestic beetle showcases perfection in every detail. Adorned in a predominantly white hue, the Goliathus features a captivating and intricate pattern, boasting a complex array of white spots enveloped by a striking black border.

These magnificent creatures exclusively inhabit sandy landscapes adorned with thick trees, creating a unique harmony with their surroundings. Our curated specimens originate from a breeding program in the biodiverse Democratic Republic of the Congo, where careful attention to their natural habitat ensures the authenticity and integrity of these remarkable specimens. 

Huge size Pocillopora eydouxi, known as Cauliflower coral is a widespread specimen and can be identified by the presence of wart on its surface. The colonies can be dome shaped or branching and are very variable in color and form depending on the environmental conditions. Species situated on shallow reefs by the sea tend to be stunted and those in deep calm water are often thin and open. Each polyp has tentacles but these are normally extended only at night. These corals are sometimes attach to floating objects and can be carried far afield by currents. This particular specimen came from Solomon Island with respective CITES certificate ensuring its legal and sustainable sourcing. Displayed in a black lacquered wood base, to enhance any interior decoration.

This stunning Victorian-style table tray features two large valves of Pecten subnodosus, a species of scallop commonly known as the Giant Lion's Paw. Native to the Pacific and Gulf of California coasts of the Baja California Peninsula, Mexico, extending southward to the western coast of Peru. These specimens originate from Baja California, USA. This species is edible.

Mounted in a Victorian style with one Carnelian cabochon and four Amethyst cabochons, all set in a handmade dark brass base.

Macrodontia cervicornis (popularly known as the Sabertooth longhorn beetle) is an insect of the order Coleoptera and the family Cerambycidae, subfamily Prioninae; a beetle whose habitat is the humid tropical forests of the Neotropical region; from Colombia and the Guianas to the southern region of Brazil (Paraná), also including Ecuador and Peru. Reaching up to 17 centimeters in length, Macrodontia cervicornis is one of the largest and most beautiful species of beetles in the world, combining extreme rarity.

Interestingly, in the early days of aviation, in the 20th century, Macrodontia cervicornis served as a model for studies on aerodynamics by the French aviator Louis Blériot. Its larvae are a source of food for the indigenous peoples of Brazil, possessing excellent taste.

This perfectly rare specimen is beautifully displayed in a uniquely designed showcase by One of a Kind.

Beautiful Sand clam - Tridacna derasa, this is an endangered species, from Australia.

Tridacna derasa, commonly known as the Derasa clam or the Smooth Giant Clam, is one of the largest species of clam in the world. These majestic creatures are native to the tropical Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Derasa clams are characterized by their smooth, elongated shells, which can reach impressive sizes.

Supplied with CITES certificate. 

Gorgonacea sp. - Red Gorgonian, from Madagascar. These gorgonians live between 20 and 100 meters deep in vertical walls, caught by divers and prepared in order to maintain their natural color. Like corals, gorgonians are animals living in sessile colonial polyps organized in a tree shape. Its structure is a skeleton both soft and hard, called gorgonine and they do not grow in the direction of the sun but perpendicular to the current in order to filter a maximum of waterflow.

Displayed in a black lacquered wood stand, turned into a unique decor item. 

This stunning decorative piece showcases a preserved Acropora hyacinthus coral – also known as Table coral – originated from the Solomon Islands. Displayed on a handmade dark brass base, it captures the delicate beauty of marine ecosystems. With intricate branching, this coral exemplifies the diversity of coral reefs. It comes with the respective CITES certificate, ensuring its legal and sustainable sourcing.

The support complements the coral's hues, creating an elegant contrast. Perfect for coastal-themed rooms, a centrepiece or marine-inspired spaces, it is for sure a captivating tribute to coral reef splendor.

Acropora nobilis coral, also known as the Noble Branch coral in a handmade dark brass base. This specimen is one of the most beautiful corals, in cream natural color with cylindrical branches developed horizontally with radial corallites in mixed sizes. It is a protected species like all corals, supplied with respective CITES certificate, from Solomon Islands.

This unique and one-of-a-kind natural masterpiece is an ideal addition to elevate your home décor.

Giant Barrel Sponge (Xestospongia testudinaria) is a giant species of sponge found in the Indo-Pacific coral reefs. It commonly occurs at depths ranging from over 10 meters to 120 meters and can grow up to a diameter of 1.8 meters. The sponge typically exhibits a brownish-red to brownish-gray coloration, with a hard or stony texture. Due to its impressive size and estimated lifespan of hundreds to possibly thousands of years, the giant barrel sponge has earned the nickname "redwood of the reef." It displays a variable form, often appearing as a large, firm, barrel-shaped structure with a cone-shaped cavity at the top called the osculum. These sponges make beautiful decorative pieces. The specimen in question originates from Luzon, Philippines.

Heterometrus laoticus - Vietnam Forest Scorpion is a scorpion species found in peaty areas of Vietnam and Laos. They can reach lengths of up to 17 cm. They are a communal species, but cannibalism has been known to occur, and if caught, they can be extremely violent even towards their own kind.

Rather than being a lethal toxin, the giant scorpion's venom is paralytic. The venom is distilled into medicines against various kinds of microorganisms. It exhibits good results in disc diffusion assay for Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, among others.

The scorpion is farmed for consumption as a novelty food in Vietnam and Thailand. They are also used to make snake wine (scorpion wine).

This one is from a farm in thailand, mounted in a frame.

Acropora florida coral specimen - known as the Branch coral - from Solomon Islands, supplied with its respective CITES certificate, once it is a protected species. Found only until 30 meters deep in shallow reefs, it is one of the most beautiful corals! Its colonies consist of thick upright and sometimes horizontal branches, growing from a sprawling or encrusting base, with side branches and small branchlets. The color of this coral specimen varies, and may be from pinkish brown or some shade of green. Mounted in a handmade dark brass base, to emphasize the beauty of this piece, turned into an exclusive décor piece.

Megabalanus from the Philippines is a type of barnacle, a marine crustacean belonging to the Balanidae family. What sets this Megabalanus apart is its larger and more robust size compared to other barnacle species. In terms of appearance, Megabalanus barnacles typically feature a conical or pyramid-shaped shell structure composed of overlapping plates or ribbed plates. These barnacles can be found in various marine environments, including rocky shores, coastal areas, and coral reefs.

Heterometrus laoticus - Vietnam Forest Scorpion is a scorpion species found in peaty areas of Vietnam and Laos. They can reach lengths of up to 17 cm. They are a communal species, but cannibalism has been known to occur, and if caught, they can be extremely violent even towards their own kind.

Rather than being a lethal toxin, the giant scorpion's venom is paralytic. The venom is distilled into medicines against various kinds of microorganisms. It exhibits good results in disc diffusion assay for Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, among others.

The scorpion is farmed for consumption as a novelty food in Vietnam and Thailand. They are also used to make snake wine (scorpion wine).

This one is from a farm in thailand, mounted in a glass dome.

Acropora latistella, also known as Table coral, sourced from the crystal-clear waters of the Solomon Islands. This exquisite coral specimen, thoughtfully mounted on a handmade dark brass base, is a true masterpiece that seamlessly combines natural elegance with artistic craftsmanship.

This table coral is accompanied by a CITES certificate ensuring its legal and sustainable sourcing. It becomes a captivating centerpiece that adds sophistication to any space. The dark brass base provides a stunning contrast, accentuating the coral's natural beauty and infusing a touch of refined elegance into your surroundings.

Tubipora musica coral in handmade dark brass base, from Solomon island.

Beautiful natural red color, formed by pipes that remind an organ!

It is supplied with CITES number.

Superb Heteropterix dilatata from Malaysia in a black wood frame.

Heteropteryx dilatata is the only described species and gives its name to the family of the Heteropterygidae. Their only species may be known as Jungle nymph, Malaysian stick insect or Malayan wood nymph and because of their size it is commonly kept in zoological institutions and private terrariums of insect lovers. It originates in Malay Archipelago, more precisely on the Malay Peninsula and Borneo and is nocturnal.

Tubipora musica coral in handmade dark brass base, from Solomon island.

Beautiful natural red color, formed by pipes that remind an organ!

It is supplied with CITES number.

Marine Life Cabinet – white specimen on a black lacquered wood cabinet Victorian style.

Inside from left to right up from down :

Knobbed white sea urchin, from Philippines

Pocillopora meandrina coral, from Solomon Isl.

Xenophora pallidula, from Philippines

Two Fusinus colus, from Philippines

Two Cymatium muricinum, from Philippines

Two Homalocantha zamboi, from Philippines

Three Siratus alabaster, from Philippines

Clypeaster sp., from USA

Two Sand dollar urchin, from USA

Clypeaster sp., from USA

Seriatopora hystrix coral, from Solomon Isl.

Argonauta argo, from Indonesia

Ovula ovum, from Philippines

White Sea star, from USA

Carcharhinus obscurus vertebrae, from Madagascar

White Sea star, from USA

Heterometrus laoticus - Vietnam Forest Scorpion is a scorpion species found in peaty areas of Vietnam and Laos. They can reach lengths of up to 17 cm. They are a communal species, but cannibalism has been known to occur, and if caught, they can be extremely violent even towards their own kind.

Rather than being a lethal toxin, the giant scorpion's venom is paralytic. The venom is distilled into medicines against various kinds of microorganisms. It exhibits good results in disc diffusion assay for Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, among others.

The scorpion is farmed for consumption as a novelty food in Vietnam and Thailand. They are also used to make snake wine (scorpion wine).

This one is from a farm in thailand, mounted in a glass dome.

Tubastraea Micanthra, considered one of the most exquisite living corals, gracing the waters from the Red Sea to Madagascar and select Pacific regions. While those from the Red Sea and Madagascar are typically smaller, the exceptional size of the specimens from Solomon Islands sets them apart. Mounted in a handmade brass base, this extraordinary coral species is predominantly found in deep waters, making each specimen a true rarity.

It comes with the respective CITES certificate, ensuring its legal and sustainable sourcing. With its unique charm and limited availability, this coral specimen is a rare treasure that will undoubtedly become a remarkable centerpiece for any collection or decor display. Embrace the allure of Tubastraea Micanthra and add a touch of marine splendor to your space.

Acropora nobilis coral - Noble Branch coral in a black lacquered wood base, from Solomon Islands.

Giant size specimen of the most beautiful corals. 

Supplied with CITES certificate.

One of a Kind piece!

Huge size Black Gorgonian in a handmade dark brass base.

These Gorgonias feature a unique and distinctive shape, carefully collected by skilled divers from the enchanting waters of Manado, located in North Sulawesi, Indonesia.

Embrace the natural beauty of this captivating piece, as its intricate form and dark hues add a touch of allure and sophistication to any decor. Each Gorgonian serves as a testament to the mesmerizing wonders found beneath the ocean's depths, bringing a sense of tranquility and marine elegance to your space.

A beautiful glass vitrine with a male and female of Mecynorhina torquata, is among the largest flower beetles in the world, only surpassed by the goliath beetles.It reaches about 55–85 millimetres (2.2–3.3 in) of length in the males, while the females are slightly smaller, reaching about 50–60 millimetres (2.0–2.4 in) of length.

Also a male and female of Mecynorhina ugandensis that differs from the torquata in the colour more brown and slightly bigger. These beetles are native to tropical Africa, especially in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cameroon and Uganda. In this case they came from Uganda.

Acropora latistella, also known as Table coral, sourced from the crystal-clear waters of the Solomon Islands. This exquisite coral specimen, thoughtfully mounted on a handmade dark brass base, is a true masterpiece that seamlessly combines natural elegance with artistic craftsmanship.

This table coral is accompanied by a CITES certificate ensuring its legal and sustainable sourcing. It becomes a captivating centerpiece that adds sophistication to any space. The dark brass base provides a stunning contrast, accentuating the coral's natural beauty and infusing a touch of refined elegance into your surroundings.

Syrinx aruanius - Australian Trumpet shell in a dark brass base.

It's a species of extremely large sea snail measuring up to 91 cm long and weighing up to 18 kg. Shells over 50 cm are now impossible to obtain, specially in good condition. It is a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Turbinellidae, and is the only species in the genus Syrinx.

This one is open into an spiral shape, handmade by local artisans from Indonesia. 

Cyriopagopus minax known as Thailand black is a medium sized Tarantula.

It is a very fast and aggressive spider, and females are bigger and more dangerous! Even during mating, males are too afraid to simply approach a female and mate with her. Males take it pretty slow, attempting to distract the female with large slapping action from their front pair of legs.

They live in Thailand and Myanmar.

Polished Turbo marmoratus, artfully transformed into a Victorian-style silver-plated sugar bowl, meticulously crafted by a traditional artisan.The shell originates from Manado, Indonesia, making it a unique and captivating serving item that adds a touch of charm to any table setting.

Stylophora pistillata, from Solomon Islands.

Beautiful specimen coral, mounted in a handmade dark brass base.

Supplied with CITES certificate. 

Scolopendra subspinipes is a species of very large centipede found throughout eastern Asia.

It is also found on virtually all land areas around and within the Indian Ocean, all of tropical and subtropical Asia from Russia to the islands of Malaysia and Indonesia, Australia, South and Central America, possibly parts of the southern United States, but how much of this range is natural and how much due to human introduction is unclear.

It is among the largest centipedes with a maximum length of 20 cm, this particular specimen is more than 20 cm! This centipede is an active, aggressive predator that preys on any animal it can overpower. It has been reported as apparent cause of human death.

This one came from Thailand, mounted in a black wood frame.

Tubipora musica coral in a black lacquered wood base, from Solomon island.

Beautiful natural red color, formed by pipes that remind an organ!

It is supplied with CITES number.

A glass frame with 3 different species of Mormolyce insects.

Mormolyce castelnaudi, Mormolyce hagenbachi and Mormolyce phyllodes. Due their peculiar shape they are known as Violin insects. They all came from Malaysia, where they live in rain forest.

Both adults and larvae are predators, feeding on insect larvae. For defense purposes, they secrete the poisonous butyric acid the eject and cause paralysis, even in humans.

An exceptional specimen of pinna nobilis, from Greece, in a black lacquered wood frame .

The specimen came from a old collection, today is impossible to get this size specimen. 

One of a Kind decor piece!

Ctenocella Pectinata, a captivating marine treasure native to the Indian Ocean specifically found off the shores of Broome, Northwestern Australia, exhibits an enchanting resemblance to the graceful lyre, a musical instrument. As a natural gorgonian organism, its mesmerizing form embodies the elegance of this ancient instrument.

Gorgonians, akin to corals, are fascinating creatures that thrive as sessile colonial polyps, intricately woven into a tree-like configuration. Their architectural masterpiece, a resilient yet pliable skeleton known as gorgonin, defies conventional growth patterns as it extends perpendicular to the prevailing currents. This unique orientation enables Ctenocella Pectinata to maximize its interaction with water flow, effortlessly filtering and harnessing vital nutrients without the need for sunlight-induced development. 

"Cup coral" Turbinaria reniformis, its skeleton forms large and horizontal white waves curled around the edges, in a conic shape.

When alive, the polyps color has a beautiful multitude of shades ranging from yellow to green.

Mounted in a handmade dark brass base, from Solomon island.

Supplied with CITES certificate.

One of a Kind piece that makes the difference in a decor ambience.

A beautiful group of Coleoptera framed in a lacquered black wood frame.

From up left to right we have Paraleprodera festiva from Thailand, Pavieia superba from Thailand, in the middle Xystrocera festiva from Thailand, Polybothris sumptuosa gemma from Madagascar and Lampropepla rothschildi from Madagascar.

A One of Kind piece of uncommom insects in very high quality specimen.

"Cup coral" Turbinaria reniformis, its skeleton forms large and horizontal white waves curled around the edges, in a conic shape.

When alive, the polyps color has a beautiful multitude of shades ranging from yellow to green.

Mounted in a handmade dark brass base, from Solomon island.

Supplied with CITES certificate.

One of a Kind piece that makes the difference in a decor ambience.

Pachyseris rugosa coral from Solomon Islands.

Pachyseris rugosa, also known as the Maze Coral, boasts intricate patterns and a textured surface that add depth and visual interest to any space. Embrace the allure of the Pachyseris rugosa coral as it takes center stage in your decor. Its seamless integration with the dark brass base exudes sophistication and complements a range of interior styles.

This coral specimen is supplied with its respective CITES certificate, guaranteeing its legal and sustainable sourcing.

Turbo marmoratus, from Indonesia, mounted in a handmade work in brass.

Known as the Green Turban, the Marbled Turban or Great Green Turban, is a large species of marine gastropod with a thick calcareous operculum in the family Turbinidae, the turban snails. The shells of these large sea snails have a very thick layer of nacre; this species has been commercially fished as a source of mother of pearl.

One of a Kind decor piece!

Impressive couple of Dorystenes walkeri beetles, big and perfect coleopter from Thailand, displayed in a glass dome.

Stylophora pistillata, from Solomon Islands.

Beautiful specimen coral, mounted in a black lacquered wood base.

Supplied with CITES certificate. 

Marine Life Glass vitrine with black lacquered wood base, displaying an Orange gorgonia from Philippines, a Stylopora pistillata coral from Solomon Islands, one Nautilus pompilius polished and one half cutted both from Philippines, and also a Coelopleura maillardi sea urchin from Philippines and a white Sea star from Florida, USA.

A One of a Kind piece!

Portunus pelagicus, commonly known as the flower crab or blue crab, is a large crab species inhabiting the Indo-Pacific region. It can be found along the coasts of Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Additionally, it thrives in intertidal estuaries spanning most of Australia and extending eastward to New Caledonia. The species holds significant commercial importance across the Indo-Pacific, where it is sought after for its traditional hard shells or marketed as "soft-shelled" crabs, considered a delicacy in various Asian cuisines. The species is highly valued, particularly in the Persian Gulf, where it is extensively harvested for meat consumption, with females commanding higher prices than males.

Noteworthy traits such as rapid growth, ease of larviculture, high fecundity, and relatively robust tolerance to both nitrate and ammonia make Portunus pelagicus an ideal candidate for aquaculture.

This particular specimen is from Cebu, Philippines.

Pachyseris rugosa coral from Solomon Islands.

Pachyseris rugosa, also known as the Maze Coral, boasts intricate patterns and a textured surface that add depth and visual interest to any space. Embrace the allure of the Pachyseris rugosa coral as it takes center stage in your decor. Its seamless integration with the black lacquered wood base exudes sophistication and complements a range of interior styles.

This coral specimen is supplied with its respective CITES certificate, guaranteeing its legal and sustainable sourcing.

Giant Barrel Sponge (Xestospongia testudinaria) is a giant species of sponge found in the Indo-Pacific coral reefs. It commonly occurs at depths ranging from over 10 meters to 120 meters and can grow up to a diameter of 1.8 meters. The sponge typically exhibits a brownish-red to brownish-gray coloration, with a hard or stony texture. Due to its impressive size and estimated lifespan of hundreds to possibly thousands of years, the giant barrel sponge has earned the nickname "redwood of the reef." It displays a variable form, often appearing as a large, firm, barrel-shaped structure with a cone-shaped cavity at the top called the osculum. These sponges make beautiful decorative pieces. The specimen in question originates from Luzon, Philippines.

Sanaa imperialis is a species of bush cricket (or katydid) found in the tropical forests of South and Southeast Asia.

A beautiful pair (male and female) from Thailand in a black wood frame.

Millepora exaesa, also known as Fire Coral, is a species of marine hydrozoans found in tropical and subtropical oceans. Its distinctive appearance is characterized by its encrusting or branching structure, often resembling the shape of delicate, intricately textured lace. This coral species is renowned for its vibrant hues, ranging from fiery shades of red, orange, and yellow, which lend an unmistakable visual appeal to coral reef ecosystems.

Despite its name, Fire Coral is not a true coral but a hydrozoan that can deliver a painful sting upon contact, making it essential to admire from a safe distance. From Solomon Islands mounted in a black lacquered wood base. 

Supplied with CITES certificate.

Giant Barrel Sponge (Xestospongia testudinaria) is a giant species of sponge found in the Indo-Pacific coral reefs. It commonly occurs at depths ranging from over 10 meters to 120 meters and can grow up to a diameter of 1.8 meters. The sponge typically exhibits a brownish-red to brownish-gray coloration, with a hard or stony texture. Due to its impressive size and estimated lifespan of hundreds to possibly thousands of years, the giant barrel sponge has earned the nickname "redwood of the reef." It displays a variable form, often appearing as a large, firm, barrel-shaped structure with a cone-shaped cavity at the top called the osculum. These sponges make beautiful decorative pieces. The specimen in question originates from Luzon, Philippines.

Flata rubra is not a butterfly is a Flatidae, the only species of this peculiar family, from Thailand.

Seven specimen in a glass dome, the contrasted colors are beautiful, however is very difficult to prepare these species due to the delicate bodies and wings.

A unique chance to get this amazing One of a Kind piece.

Black Gorgonian in a black lacquered wood base.

These medium-sized Gorgonias feature a unique and distinctive shape, carefully collected by skilled divers from the enchanting waters of Manado, located in North Sulawesi, Indonesia.

Embrace the natural beauty of this captivating piece, as its intricate form and dark hues add a touch of allure and sophistication to any decor. Each Gorgonian serves as a testament to the mesmerizing wonders found beneath the ocean's depths, bringing a sense of tranquility and marine elegance to your space.

Neptun Cap Coral - Halomitra pileus in a handmade hammered dark brass base, from Solomon island.

These corals are not attached to the rocks or other corals, they live free on the bottom, and usually in the shape of a helmet, but also sometimes with a flattened round shape.

Supplied with CITES certificate.

In a classy bowl shape turned into a unique decor piece!

Brown Tube Sponge (Agelas conífera) in a black lacquered wood base. Resembling the graceful form of organ pipes, this distinctive sponge displays a beautiful palette ranging from brown to tan, with hints of greyish tones. Its upper "tubes" feature a captivating spiny texture, adding to its allure. Originally found in the Caribbean, Bahamas, and occasionally spotted in Florida, this sponge species forms colonies that can grow impressively large, surpassing one meter in size. Unveil the splendor of this stunning and truly unique decorative piece, sourced directly from Florida, USA.

Stylophora pistillata, from Solomon Islands.

Beautiful specimen coral, mounted in a handmade dark brass base.

Supplied with CITES certificate. 

This species of Spongia came from the Florida Keys.

It is a very healthy population once from many years they are fished commercially for bath sponges, these are special pieces turned into great decor objects. The sponges feed on microorganisms that they filter and their larvae are taken by the sea movements making them widespread. Taken by divers from 5 to 40 meters deep.

Mounted in a black lacquered wood stand.

Stylophora pistillata, from Solomon Islands. Beautiful specimen coral, mounted in a gold metal stand.

Supplied with CITES certificate. 

Vertical branch black Gorgonian in a black lacquered wood base, these medium sizes Gorgonia have a special shape and are taken by divers from Manado, North Sulawezi - Indonesia. 

Syrinx aruanius - Australian Trumpet shell in a dark brass base.

It's a species of extremely large sea snail measuring up to 91 cm long and weighing up to 18 kg. Shells over 50 cm are now impossible to obtain, specially in good condition. It is a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Turbinellidae, and is the only species in the genus Syrinx.

A beautiful and colorful mini Marine Life Glass dome, with a Seriatopora Hystrix coral from Solomon Islands, a Terebra dimidiata, a Nerita textilis, a Clanculus puniceus from Philippines and a Orange sea urchin from Madagascar.

For your kids Natural History collection!

Giant Barrel Sponge (Xestospongia testudinaria) is a giant species of sponge found in the Indo-Pacific coral reefs. It commonly occurs at depths ranging from over 10 meters to 120 meters and can grow up to a diameter of 1.8 meters. The sponge typically exhibits a brownish-red to brownish-gray coloration, with a hard or stony texture. Due to its impressive size and estimated lifespan of hundreds to possibly thousands of years, the giant barrel sponge has earned the nickname "redwood of the reef." It displays a variable form, often appearing as a large, firm, barrel-shaped structure with a cone-shaped cavity at the top called the osculum. These sponges make beautiful decorative pieces. The specimen in question originates from Luzon, Philippines.

Neptun Cap Coral - Halomitra pileus in a handmade hammered brass base, from Solomon island.

These corals are not attached to the rocks or other corals, they live free on the bottom, and usually in the shape of a helmet, but also sometimes with a flattened round shape.

Supplied with CITES certificate.

In a classy bowl shape turned into a unique decor piece!

Sponge species from Madagascar reefs, mounted in a black lacquered wood base.

Sponges are beautiful decor items, due to its different shapes and colours.

Pachyseris rugosa coral from Solomon Islands.

Pachyseris rugosa, also known as the Maze Coral, boasts intricate patterns and a textured surface that add depth and visual interest to any space. Embrace the allure of the Pachyseris rugosa coral as it takes center stage in your decor. Its seamless integration with the dark brass base exudes sophistication and complements a range of interior styles.

This coral specimen is supplied with its respective CITES certificate, guaranteeing its legal and sustainable sourcing.

Fantastic deep water Sponge species. A deep water hard sponge, very peculiar resemble Turbinaria coral.

Mounted in a black lacquered wood base, from Tulear, Madagascar waters.

Sponge species from Madagascar reefs, mounted in a white lacquered wood base.

Sponges are beautiful decor items, due to its different shapes and colours.

A superb Bryozoa sps. Glass vitrine - Bryozoa (also known as the Polyzoa, Ectoprocta or commonly as moss animals) are a phylum of simple, aquatic invertebrate animals, nearly all living in sedentary colonies. Typically about 0.5 millimetres long, they have a special feeding structure called a lophophore, a "crown" of tentacles used for filter feeding. Most marine bryozoans live in tropical waters, but a few are found in oceanic trenches and polar waters. The bryozoans are classified as the marine bryozoans (Stenolaemata) 5,869 living species are known. At least, two genera are solitary (Aethozooides and Monobryozoon); all the rest are colonial.

Colonies take a variety of forms, including fans, bushes and sheets. Single animals, called zooids, live throughout the colony and are not fully independent. These individuals can have unique and diverse functions. All colonies have "autozooids", which are responsible for feeding, excretion, and supplying nutrients to the colony through diverse channels. Some classes have specialist zooids like hatcheries for fertilized eggs, colonial defence structures, and root-like attachment structures. Cheilostomata is the most diverse order of bryozoan, possibly because its members have the widest range of specialist zooids. They have mineralized exoskeletons and form single-layered sheets which encrust over surfaces, and some colonies can creep very slowly by using spiny defensive zooids as legs.

Predators of marine bryozoans include sea slugs (nudibranchs), fish, sea urchins, pycnogonids, crustaceans, mites and starfish. Chemicals extracted from a marine bryozoan species have been investigated for treatment of cancer and Alzheimer's disease, but analyses have not been encouraging.

These four different species of Bryozoa have been taken by a famous Italian diver at a deep of 40/50 m from Capo Vado – Savona coast, Italy.

Finger Coral - Acropora humilis, from Solomon Islands. Beautiful specimen coral, mounted in a brass base.

Supplied with CITES certificate. 

Beautiful Sand clam - Tridacna derasa, this is an endangered species, from Australia.

Tridacna derasa, commonly known as the Derasa clam or the Smooth Giant Clam, is one of the largest species of clam in the world. These majestic creatures are native to the tropical Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Derasa clams are characterized by their smooth, elongated shells, which can reach impressive sizes.

Supplied with CITES certificate. 

Mexican Sunflower Starfish 23 legs and Ophiura from Philippines Glass Dome.

Two very special Echinoderms, both with strange forms that let us see how impressive nature can be. They are high quality specimen in very good colour.

Both of these species are predator of sea urchins.

Mounted by One of a Kind in glass dome with black lacquered base.

Small size specimen polished showing all the mother-of-pearl of the Nautilus pompilius, from Philippines.

Mounted in a handmade brass base, it's a unique One of a Kind decor piece.

Supplied with Cites certificate. 

Gorgonacea sp. beautiful yellow sea fan, thick branches very robust dived 20 m, from Java – Indonesia.

Great decor item, mounted in black high gloss round wood base.

Neptun Cap Coral - Halomitra pileus in a brass handmade base, from Solomon island.

These corals are not attached to the rocks or other corals, they live free on the bottom, and usually in the shape of a helmet, but also sometimes with a flattened round shape.

Supplied with CITES certificate.

Sponge species from Madagascar reefs, mounted in a high gloss beige round lacquered wood base.

Sponges are beautiful decor items, due to its different shapes and colours.

This species of Spongia came from the Florida Keys.

It is a very healthy population once from many years they are fished commercially for bath sponges, these are special pieces turned into great decor objects. The sponges feed on microorganisms that they filter and their larvae are taken by the sea movements making them widespread. Taken by divers from 5 to 40 meters deep.

Mounted in a black lacquered wood stand.

Bird Nest Coral - Seriatopora hystrix in a brass base, from Solomon Islands.

Beautiful and very delicate coral.

Supplied with CITES certificate. 

One of a Kind piece!

Precious coral or Red coral, is the common name given to a genus of marine corals, Corallium.

The distinguishing characteristic of precious corals is their durable and intensely colored red or pink-orange skeleton, which is used for making jewelry.

This is the Corallium rubrum species they grow on rocky seabottom with low sedimentation, typically in dark environments—either in the depths or in dark caverns or crevices. The original species, C. rubrum is found mainly in the Mediterranean Sea. It grows at depths from 10 to 300 meters below sea level, although the shallower of these habitats have been largely depleted by harvesting.

Now it's a protected species, although is still fished by licenced divers at very deep water (+100 meters deep) in South Italy.

Our specimen was officially bought from a licenced supplier with official documents, from South Italy, mounted in a black lacquered wood base.

Neptun Cap Coral - Halomitra pileus in a high gloss red lacquered wood base, from Solomon island.

These corals are not attached to the rocks or other corals, they live free on the bottom, and usually in the shape of a helmet, but also sometimes with a flattened round shape.

Supplied with CITES certificate.

This species of Spongia came from the Florida Keys.

It is a very healthy population once from many years they are fished commercially for bath sponges, these are special pieces turned into great decor objects. The sponges feed on microorganisms that they filter and their larvae are taken by the sea movements making them widespread. Taken by divers from 5 to 40 meters deep.

Mounted in a black lacquered wood stand.

Pocillopora eydouxi coral, from Solomon Islands.

Beautiful coral, mounted in a black lacquered wood base.

Supplied with CITES certificate. 

Sponge species from Madagascar reefs, mounted in a black round lacquered wood base.

Sponges are beautiful decor items, due to its different shapes and colours.

Marine Life glass box with brass edges, inside we have:

- Strombus listeri from Thailand

- An exotic Tatcheria mirabilis from Philippines

- A elusive Cypraea mapa from Philippines

- A colouful Mitra mitra from Indonesia

- A pink sea urchin from Mediterranean sea

One of a Kind decor piece!