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One of the predominantly 'Maduran' shell traders,
showing off one of many plus 20 Kg. Giant clams for sale in Bali. These
are gathered all over Indonesia's once pristine coral reef areas which
are totally pillaged and destroyed to acquire shells. As of July, 1997,
this dealer could 'only' guarantee about ten of these shells a month because
they are becoming extinct. |
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Smelly bags of uncleaned unpolished 'Nautilus'
shells, approximately two thousand plus thousands of other shells stuffed
in a back room to be cleaned and polished for businessmen and tourists
alike. Total populations of the prehistorically renowned Nautilus is now
in danger of becoming extinct. The uncontrolled and unmonitored shell trade
is taking its toll on many coral reefs as more shells and coral are removed
than nature can replace. This dealer guaranteed to supply approximately
one thousand Nautilus shells per month! |
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Giant Clams, protected by written law, are
openly removed from the sea and traded/sold without regard to law or existing
declining populations. Thirty available at approx. US $ 60 per shell, July
'97. |
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One of many Shell shops on Bali. Evidence
of total exploitation of coral reefs. |
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Tourist totally surprised of the size of shells
and amount available unregistered by government monitors. |
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One of many sellers roaming Indonesian tourist
beaches selling shells, including those protected by written laws. One
Nautilus shell can cost as low as US $ 2.00. |