Nautilus shells are beautiful, no doubt about it. These mollusks are also fairly rare. They are only found in the deep sea of the Indo-Pacific. Their gorgeous shells are also in demand. More than 100,000 shells (according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)) are imported into the U.S. each year, to be sold in stores or online. Additionally, the iridescent nacre on the inside of the shell is desired for its decorative use and for use as pearl buttons. A new study by Peter Ward, Professor at the University of Adelaide in Australia, suggests this level of trade is not sustainable. Ward states: “There is no sustainable fishery for nautilus possible anywhere. ” Ward’s study suggest that Nautilus are already almost gone due to over-fishing in places like the Philippines. There is very little restrictions or regulations on Nautilus collection. Ward, along with other conservationists have tried to make the Nautilus protected. The FWS has claimed there was not enough statistical data to support the proposition that the Nautilus needed protective status. Hopefully the more data and awareness there is, the better chance of getting protection for these amazing mollusks. MORE