Munhala Dhamarrandji
Gomu’
42.5 x 30.5cm

ID: 2273-24

Gomu’ are a form of hermit crab who are sung by the Djambarrpuyŋu. The edible species are known as Ŋukaliya or Variegated Hermit Crab Clibanarius taeniatus. But the Maypal, Mayili ga Wäŋa- Shellfish, meaning and place  dictionary suggests that Gomu’ are inedible and that they prefer the shell shapes known as Ḻaḻaywarra and barawatharr. Gomu’ is known as ‘Hermit Crab’ or Coenobita perlatus. It is much more heavily built than Ŋukaliya and the shells it refers are round rather than pointed.

The Djambarrpuyŋu songs of turtle hunters divulge that as the turtle is butchered according to strict protocols relating to cuts and priority division the Gomu’ rise to the top of the sand attracted by the smell.