How many shapes of pasta are there in the world?

It's impossible to say exactly how many shapes of pasta exist in the world. Here's why:

* Constant Innovation: New pasta shapes are constantly being created by chefs, home cooks, and pasta makers.

* Regional Variations: Different regions of Italy and other countries have their own unique pasta shapes, passed down through generations. Many of these are not widely known or documented.

* No Central Registry: There's no official body that tracks and catalogs every pasta shape.

However, there are hundreds of known and recognized pasta shapes. Some estimates put the number at over 300, while others claim over 600.

Some common pasta shapes include:

* Long pasta: Spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, bucatini, tagliatelle

* Short pasta: Penne, rigatoni, fusilli, tortellini, conchiglie

* Filled pasta: Ravioli, tortellini, cappelletti

* Specialty pasta: Orecchiette, gnocchi, pappardelle

It's safe to say that the world of pasta is vast and diverse, with countless possibilities for culinary creativity.