Rise and Shine! The Sunrise Tellin
Posted by Jody on October 25, 2012
Rise and shine! It’s beachcombing time!
The Sunrise Tellin (Tellina radiata) is a colorful, smooth and glossy seashell. Plentiful throughout the Caribbean, this rather large bivalve (2 – 41/2″) is white to yellowish-white with a pattern consisting of bands that radiate from the top of the shell to the edge, varying in width and number. The beautiful Sunrise Tellin is often decorated with brilliant pinkish-brown rays, hence the common name “sunrise.” Clever, huh? 🙂

Sunrise Tellin (exterior)
The interior of this lovely seashell is white with a large area of yellow in the center. The exterior’s bright radiating lines are often somewhat visible on the inside of the seashell.

Sunrise Tellin (interior)
These marine mollusks live buried in sand in water from 5-48″ deep. Their entire range is from southern Florida to northern South America.
I’ve come across more than one source that suggests that Sunrise Tellin seashells are not to be collected on various beaches. On some, it appears that they may even be a protected species. No matter where you beach comb, it’s always important to check the local laws and ordinances before you kick off those flip flops and head to the shoreline.
Here are a couple of related posts on beachcombing regulations:
Beachcombing? Shelling Regulations Abound!
Beachcombers Beware! ~ Regulation Variation at National Seashores
Know before you go! And have a great time beachcombing!
II 4S Aopmrdd said
how to keep them shinny?
Jody said
They just stay that way! Isn’t that interesting?
Cristi M. said
Hello ! I’ve nominated you for Tell Me About Yourself Award .It would be an honor if you choose to accept it.
http://cristimoise.wordpress.com/2012/10/25/tell-me-about-yourself-award-2/
Jody said
Christi, how kind! Thank you so much!
Kurt said
Thanks for posting this.. It’s been a pleasure to read 🙂
Jody said
Kurt, you’re welcome! Glad you enjoyed it.
Rolling Harbour said
Just caught up with this in trawl of inbox. Love these. Unlawful to take these out of the Bahamas. As if!! RH
Jody said
Interesting! I know how tricky the laws can be where beachcombing is involved. It usually takes some investigating. Thanks for the info!