I felt like this subject needed its own blog post because it is so unusual. The prompt is On The Beach, so I painted this leathery, tendrilled curiosity. We find them washed up on the beach almost every year while on vacation.
It is called a mermaid’s purse, which sounds much better than saying it is an empty egg case of a skate (a kind of ray/fish). Some sharks also have similar-looking egg cases. Eggs are laid in this small pouch made of collagen proteins that protect the developing embryo for up to 12 weeks. At that point, the skate will have grown into a fully developed and independent juvenile, ready to take on the ocean. The long tendrils at the corners anchor the cases onto vegetation on the ocean floor to keep it hidden and safe from predators.
Day 15 – On The Beach, Mermaid’s Purse
To show more detail, this was painted about twice the size of the dried cases we find in North Carolina. I hope you enjoyed this little synopsis of a fascinating beach novelty.
Carol's Creative Papers 
Very informative as well as creative!
One of the most fascinating things about art is that we can learn so many un-art-related things. I had never before heard of a Mermaid’s Purse. Thanks for the watercolor, and thanks for the lesson in marine life. 🙂
It’s a wonderful name. I enjoy finding them on the beach too, although it’s been awhile. (K)
Glad you enjoyed this post, Judith! Nature always has something new to teach us.
Beachcombing is my favorite vacation activity. I love the surprises that the ocean delivers. Thanks for stopping by, Kerfe! 💖
Yes, nature teaches us so much if we’re willing to learn!
Yes, wonderful surprises!
Hey you learn something new every day! Love seeing your paintings; they remind me of childhood simplicity and school days 🙂
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We saw some egg cases like this at the aquarium last year, you could just make out the little fishes inside moving about. x
That would be cool to see! Nature is always full of surprises 🙂