Conchometer

/kɒŋˈkɒmɪtər/ noun

Definition

An instrument used to measure the dimensions and angles of shells.

Etymology

From Greek konche (shell) and -meter (measuring device). Created in the 19th century as conchologists needed precise tools to classify and compare shells scientifically.

Kelly Says

A conchometer is like a specialized ruler for shells—scientists used these to find tiny differences that proved some shells were different species!

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