Analysis of information sources in references of the Wikipedia article "Ovula ovum" in Portuguese language version.
Mwali arm-shells are cut from a cross section of a cone shell (Conus millepunctatus) and decorated with egg cowry shells (Ovula ovum). The size of the armshell is indicted by the number of cowries tied to it. Arm-shells are often too small to wear and large ones are only worn on the owner's arm for important ceremonies, so they are usually suspended on a braided rope. Mwali were made in the Trobriands and on Woodlark Island. Trade beads, seeds and shell disks (sapi sapi) are added to enhance the mwali and make it rattle when the owner walks.
As a juvenile, this species mimics a Phyllidia nudibranch to help protect itself against potential predators who will mistake it for a bad tasting nudi.
Both ends are lengthened by stem and stern pieces which are built onto the body of the canoe. These pieces are frequently decorated, sometimes by carving in the form of a crocodile head; and sometimes by white Ovula shells which are fastened on with strong bindings. (p. 160) / Finally, the curious penis shell must also be reckoned among the decorative items; covering the glans of the male member in battle or in dancing. This shell is always a medium-sized Ovula ovum, with cross-hatched patterns incised on the outer, white surface. The internal spiral is partially excavated, and the glans and foreskin are squeezed into the fissure thereby formed. This shell is always carried in a small, woven pouch on a cord around the neck or under the arm, by the adults native able to bear weapons, so that it is always in readiness. Analogous items of adornment are known to us only from St Matthias in the Bismarck Archipelago; on the other hand we find a similar penis covering in New Guinea, although made not from a shell but from a small species of gourd as in Angriff Harbour. (p. 162)
