Reasons not to collect shells on the beach
Walking the beach and feeling the sand under your feet while listening to the sound of the waves is a relaxing and invigorating activity. Many people have the habit of picking up shells as memories of these and other good times, but this practice, which seems harmless, can seriously impact the marine ecosystem.
The relevance of shells in the ecosystem
Shells play a crucial role in nature. They go beyond being merely decorative on the beach: they are vital for the survival of different species and help maintain environmental balance.
- Refuge and habitat for marine organisms: Several marine species depend on empty shells to survive. Herity crabs, for example, use them as a shelter and change shell as they grow up. Without shells available, these animals become easy targets for predators.
- Construction of nests by sea birds Some species of sea birds use shell fragments to build their nests. These materials help to provide stability, isolation and protection against predators and adverse weather conditions.
- Preservation of Coastal Balance: Shells assist in stabilization of the beaches, reducing the erosion caused by waves and winds. They form a fundamental part of the natural cycle of the beaches, keeping the soil firm and protecting the ecosystem of the dunes.
- Source of nutrients: Over time, shells decompose and release calcium and other minerals in sand and water, contributing to the development of marine organisms such as corals and mollusks.
Consequences of shell removal
Excessive shell collection may seem harmless when performed by a single person, but when thousands of individuals do it daily, the effect becomes relevant. Research indicates that beaches where shell removal is common to face higher erosion rates and a decrease in biodiversity.
In some parts of the world, such as Florida (US) and Australia, there are legislations that restrict shell collection to protect the environment. In Portugal, the legislation also prohibits the collection of geological materials, including shells, without proper authorization.
Actions that we can take now that we already know the consequences of beaches beaches we can exchange this behavior for other actions that will not impact the environment.
- Appreciating without collecting: Observing and photographing the shells is a sustainable alternative to recall your visit to the beach without harming the environment.
- Educate and awareness: Explaining the importance of shells for children and friends helps spread a culture of respect for nature.
- Contributing to preservation initiatives: Supporting or getting involved in beaches and marine ecosystem conservation projects can make a significant difference.
- Collect garbage instead of shells: Instead of bringing shells home, a sustainable option is to collect plastic or other waste found on the beach, contributing to a clean and safe environment for marine life.
Each small act counts for the preservation of our planet. Next time you visit the beach, remember that shells are part of a fragile and essential ecosystem for marine life. Instead of taking them home, leave them in their natural habitat and help protect the beauty and balance of our beaches for future generations.
- By Rafaela Cardosooceanographer, co-founder and president of Somar-Association of Marine Conservation and Bioacoustics ()
Sources:
Benjamin, E. D., Hale, R., Handley, S. J., Hillman, J. R., & Jeffs, A. (2024). Addition of mussel shells enhance marine benthic biodiversity in two degraded coastal soft sediment ecosystems. Science of The Total Environment, 177066. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.177066
Brustolin, M., Gladstone-Gallagher, R., Hewitt, J. E., Lohrer, A., & Thrush, S. (2022). The importance of shell debris for within-patch heterogeneity and disturbance-recovery dynamics of intertidal macrofauna. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 700, 53–64. https://doi.org/10.3354/meps14186
Kowalewski, M., Domènech, R., & Martinell, J. (2014). Vanishing clams on an Iberian beach: local consequences and global implications of accelerating loss of shells to tourism. PLOS ONE, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0083615
Waldbusser, G. G., Powell, E. N., & Mann, R. (2013). Ecosystem effects of shell aggregations and cycling in coastal waters: an example of Chesapeake Bay oyster reefs. Ecology, 94(4), 895–903. https://doi.org/10.1890/12-1179.1
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