Shells, Paper Nautilus & Cask HC117/1-2

1. A paper nautilus, also known as an argonaut, is a type of octopus that builds its own shell!

This Hands on Tauranga object is a thin white ribbed Pūpū Tarakihi (Paper Nautilus) shell covered in small nodules on the ridges of the shell. The shell is made by a female argonaut to protect her eggs, produced from a thin horn-like secretion from two tentacles.

These shells can be found around Tūhua (also known as Mayor Island) in the Bay of Plenty, as well as in South America and South Africa.

2. The Cask or Tun shell (Tonna Variegata) is a large rounded univalve pale yellow in colour with brown spots. Inside the shell is yellow and glossy. Live shells have been found on Matakana Island and have been picked up on Mount Maunganui beaches.

Learn more here

> https://www.nzgeo.com/stories/the-legend-of-the-argonaut/

maker: Knobbed Argonaut Octopus

maximum dimension: 120mm

subject area: Social Science, Science

subject themes: Sea, Environment, Shell, Mount Maunganui, Matakana Island, Tuhua (Mayor Island)

handling collection number: HC117/1-2

why not get your hands on these... Collection of New Zealand Shells HC113

Teaching and Learning activity ideas - The Paper Nautilus

Note: These ideas below have been written with the help of Co-Pilot.

1. Shell Observation and Sketching

• Activity: Study the Hands on Tauranga paper nautilus shell. Sketch the shell, focusing on its spiral shape and delicate texture.
• Learning Outcome: Develop observation skills and an appreciation for natural symmetry and form.

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2. Life Cycle and Behavior Exploration

• Activity: Research the life of the female argonaut and how she creates the shell. Create a comic strip or storyboard showing this process.
• Learning Outcome: Learn about marine life cycles and animal behavior.

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3. Mythology and Naming

• Activity: Investigate the origin of the name “argonaut” and its link to Greek mythology. Write a short story or poem inspired by the myth and the creature.
• Learning Outcome: Connect science with literature and cultural history.

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4. Habitat Mapping

• Activity: Use a world map to mark where paper nautiluses are found (warm, open oceans). Discuss ocean currents and habitats.
• Learning Outcome: Build geographic and ecological awareness.

For teachers with older students you could continue your learnings about octopus by watching the documentary 'My Octopus Teacher' with your class