i i .s 2) > '. = +3 + 7% * un reo = aes 2 = ' att t ya ekx $i . 3 3 4 + bes bsitenes tes teestttsti is ii sth peatatt itt i pean tee u WU ant atte Res TE | Ha at sett Te UNM CTT ieiviegnada ttitdiiiiiiittionaiin Division of ges Sectional Librar sy Dns \ TA B iz nA Ne RUDIMENTS OF CON.@ ee OL.OGy EXPLANATORY PLATES. ag hie i * paste Baader, a) ; fi on a. eae ; oe ye a oc Le ae de > Se RUDIMENTS OF CONCHOLOGY. eS = [ = | i) | | | f ' i| i] qt 1 Critham Vertagus Murex Gassispina | o wa Lie 0 || | Yer | | | i i i i | | Doliamn Maculaum Eburna — Spirata ee ’ } Lp yf TT Kid & em, \ eb RUDIMENTS Molls a : f CONCHOLOGY:/ f = INTENDED AS A f - FAMILIAR INTRODUCTION TO THE SCLENCE. ~ WITH EXPLANATORY PLATES, AND REFERENCES TO THE COLLECTION OF SHELLS IN THE BRITISH MUSEUM. Division Sectional Librar BY THE AUTHOR OF “THE GEOGRAPHICAL PRESENT,” 8 fy ng Pit A nee and improbed Edition, LONDON : DARTON ANS HARVEY GRACECHURCH STREET. 1837, LONDON: PRINTED BY JOSEPH RICKERBY; SHERBOURN LANE, ADVERTISEMENT. Tue Compiler of the following pages has derived the greater part of the information contained in them from ‘*‘ The Conchology of Lamarck,” from “ Burrows’s Elements of Conchology,” and other introductory treatises. In the present Edition of this little Work many alterations and additions have been made, with the hope of rendering it more useful to the young student. aot) : : 7 > i . is a) ¥ - ‘ - at a ~e ene vy i ‘4 . ot a.) Pham it ater ene ae | Ss pie gr i a ay pe ur , oa i t , rae, ay ATE 30 ae hee a f ye Ca hee on te 4 a oe wry c et : oe eats Bedtes, re (re 7 7 bl . of Po ves fugit alte. at abit ‘ \s i ; wwhis nit tro : ji ried \ Pf ee iba os a9 eee Ap ERRATA. Page 3, for Plate 1, read Plate 2. Page 16, line 8, for squamosa, read squamosus. Page 20, for candidas, read candida; and for Plate 3, read Plate 2. Page 25, for Plates 4 and 5, read Plates 3 and 5; and for gedaropus, read gederopus. Page 27, for epiphippium read ephippium. Page 35, line 12, dele not. Page 36, line 14, read Plate 2. Page 42, read Bruguieres ; and for Pollicepes, read Pollicipes. Page 64, line 3, read Parmophorus—line 6, read Plate 3. Page 68. line 5 from bottom, read Carocolla. Page 76, line 6, for Valvata read Voluta. Page 90, line 4, read anglicanum. Saas ‘be joe, “heii 5 ae ateiratar, len Pe net ee | Se Suet -° » ge : sh he ia RUDIMENTS OF CONCHOLOG Y-~ CHAP ERR): INTRODUCTORY. “ A pox full of shells!” said Charles to his sister Lucy, who was looking over her treasures with great attention. ‘*What can you want so many little shells for ?” ‘“‘ This box and its contents are the gifts of my cousin Jane,” replied Lucy: “she said that I might have her whole collection, if I could find any pleasure in looking at shells without knowing anything about them. But I am not quite ig- norant of the subject.” ‘“‘ Shells are pretty enough,” said Charles; “‘but how troublesome to distinguish the differ- ences between each kind! I like plants better than shells.” B 2 MULTIVALVES, BIVALVES, UNIVALVES. “¢ Probably because you are better acquainted with plants,” observed his father, Mr. Elliot, who had just entered the room: ‘however, the great naturalist, to whom you are indebted for your knowledge of plants, did not consider shells as objects beneath his attention.” ‘* You mean Linneeus,” said Lucy ; “then he, I suppose, separated shells into the three different divisions—AMultivalves, Bivalves, and Uni- valves.” ? ‘** You are right, Lucy,” replied her father. ‘** Pray show me some bivalve shells,” said Charles; “I want to know their forms. A bivalve is a shell with two openings, as I should imagine : yes, I see that I am right, for you have given me an oyster and a cockle.”’ “« Here are also Venus, Tellina, Donax, Arca, and Pinna,” observed Mr. Elliot, ‘ all very easy to distinguish.” ‘«¢ he anchor’d pinna and his cancer friend,’ ”’ repeated Charles. ‘“ So the Pinna is a bivalve ; but what has Venes to do with the matter ?” ‘“‘ That is very easy to understand,” said Lucy: “the genus called by her name is remarkable for beauty.” ‘“« Now, Charles,” said Mr. Elliot, ‘‘do you clearly comprehend the verse that you have just repeated ?” ‘< T have heard that the Pinna is a shell-fish, THE PINNA AND THE CANCER. 3 attended by a crab, ‘ his cancer friend ;’ but why it is called anchor’d I do not know, but cancer is Latin for crab.” ‘* Here is a species of Pinna,” said his father, opening a cabinet; “ and these silken threads are the means by which it fastens itself to the rocks. The animal is provided with a long foot, with which it draws out the threads, or byssus. The Pinna is sometimes called the silk-worm of the sea. Lucy, do you know a univalve shell ?” $2? “‘ Oh yes, many!” replied Lucy, ‘here are rock-shells, cowries, limpets, and cones. I know the difference between a cowry anda cone; but I am not yet acquainted with a multivalve shell— will you show me one?” ‘“‘ Chiton, or coat of mail, is a good example,” said Mr. Elliot; ‘“* Pholas is another genus of the same division; it has the appearance of a bivalve. In the Chiton are several lamina, or plates, which are connected by a membrane while the living animal is in the shell; the membrane is pliant, and the inhabitant has the power of contracting itself into a ball, when it would avoid injury, like the insect millepes, that we find under stonesin damp places. (Puatre 1.) The curious barnacle-shell, Lepas, is another multi- valve.” (PuaTE 1.) ‘* J think we cannot have a more agreeable pursuit for our leisure hours,” said Lucy, “than B 2 4 LAMARCK’'S SYSTEM. the study of shells. One can bring them out or remove them so easily, that they can cause little inconvenience, which garden-pots often do in town ; and then the plants are almost sure to die, whatever care I take of them.” ‘ Collections of shells are frequently to be seen in London,” said Mr. Elliot, “ which are in- tended for sale. There are now many places where shells are sold at moderate prices, and young collectors like yourselves can easily avail themselves of the means thus afforded, to obtain even a single specimen. While we remain in town you may visit the British Museum, and become familiar with the rare species of each genus, of which there are many costly specimens. The arrangement adopted for that collection is La- marck’s. You will find the work of this celebrated naturalist on my shelves ; it is entitled, ‘ Histoire Naturelle des Animauv sans Vertebres. The three last volumes contain the Conchology.” *‘ Tt isin French and Latin !” exclaimed Lucy, as she opened a volume. ‘¢ Why do you both look so serious ?” asked their father. ‘Are you not students in those useful languages? To what purpose do you learn a language if it be not with a view to reading the works of learned men, whose labours have opened a wide field of knowledge ?” ‘¢ But so many works on science are written in Platel To tace Lage #. thiton Sgiuamostts Cyprea Moneta Fatella WVilgata i} Solen Stligua USE OF THE LATIN LANGUAGE. 5 Latin,” said Lucy. ‘‘ Linnzus, however, has been translated, I know; and as for British botany, we have our own authors in my own dear language.” ** The Latin language being universally studied by men of science, it has become the medium of communication between the learned of most countries,” observed Mr. Elliot. ** I should con- sider a young person of your age, Lucy, very ig- norant who could not read and understand the general style of Lamarck with the occasional aid of the dictionary.” *“* Do not be discouraged, brother,”’ said Lucy, “my father will assist us: remember how fre- quently he helps us with our lessons now, provided we do our best. Iam resolved to obtain some knowledge of shells this winter.” ** A very good resolution,” said Mr. Elliot ; ‘and I predict that your usual delight on revisit- ing our favourite country dwelling will be some- what increased next spring.” ‘** Because I shall carry down my little collec- tion with the pleasure of knowing more than I did last year.” ** Our own coasts, rivers, and ponds afford a variety of shells. The hedge-banks, heaths, and other places, possess their inhabitants.” ‘© Oh,” exclaimed Lucy, “ I quite forgot the very pretty snails I have so often admired on the 6 PLEASURE OF SEARCHING FOR SHELLS. heath on a dewy morning: why, we may learn conchology in the open fields as well as botany !” ‘© Well, then,” replied Mr. Elliot, “ to-morrow we will apply ourselves to the needful instruc- tion. I must, however, remind you that I do not approve of any animal’s life being taken away in order to obtain its habitation. Empty shells are to be found, which will serve perfectly well for specimens ; and should the colour not be so bright as you could wish, you will have the delightful consciousness that youramusements have been free from cruelty, and that you have not destroyed the life of any living, harmless creature, in the pursuit of pleasure. Indeed there is as much or more gratification in searching among the rocks, or digging into the sea-sand, with a view to watch the animal in its natural place, as in possessing its empty shell: and who knows what grand dis- coveries you may both make! “‘ But I must leave you now—be ready for me after our usual dinner-hour.” INHABITANTS OF SHELLS. ~I CHAPTER II. ** ConcHoLoey,” said Mr. Elliot, on resuming the conversation with his children, ‘‘ is that branch of natural history which comprehends the study of testaceous animals, or animals with shell-coverings, and includes those of the seas, the rivers, and the land. ‘** All shells are formed of carbonate of lime. This you may easily prove by applying a little acid to a shell, and you will find that an effer- vescence takes place. ‘* The animals that inhabit shells are blood- less, without bones, but provided with a heart, lungs, and mouth, together with other organs needful to their conformation. ‘‘'Testaceous animals have the power of en- larging their habitations ; they can also repair any injury that may occur to them. ‘¢ Many kinds of shell-fish are made use of by man, and form a valuable article of food, such as oysters, cockles, muscles, scallops. The whelk is also used, and a species of murex. ** A species of cowry is in use for money among some people of Africa; and pearls, so much °S FOSSIL SHELLS. valued as articles of ornament, are obtained from the oyster and muscle genera. ‘¢ Within a few years, conchology has become a study of considerable importance, from its close connexion with geology. Students in the latter science must be well acquainted with fossil shells, because they form so large a portion of organic remains. Species of recent shells, or those still existing, are also often found in a fossil state, while many fossil genera are now totally unknown in our earth and waters. ‘* Thus you perceive that while you are ob- taining knowledge in one science, you are pre- paring yourselvesfor making advances in another, most interesting and wonderful. You, Charles, who are likely to become a traveller, will perhaps in future years find the advantage of my present brief lessons. ‘I shall first endeavour to make you ac- quainted with the system of Linneeus ; it is easily learned, and you should be familiar with it, as it is still adopted by some writers on conchology. ‘‘ But in order to understand my instructions, you must have a clear idea of the terms that I use in describing a shell; now, therefore, give me your attention while I explain some of those terms to you. “<'T’o begin with the first division, Mzltivalves. There is a group of Lepades, it is the species Denialium Llephantinum Lepas Tintinnabulrn TERMS FOR PARTS OF MULTIVALVES. 9 called goose-barnacle, of which so many strange and silly tales have been told in former times. (Puiate 2, Lepas anatifera.) This species is furnished with a kind of stem, like a bladder, and is called the peduncle, (c) and is fastened to other bodies. The feelers (d) are feathery projections, which the animal keeps in continual motion, for the purpose of catching its food. Here is a group of another kind; (PLATE 2, Lepas tintinnabu- lum ;) these are without a peduncle, and are called sessile. The base (a) is that part of the shell by which it is fixed to other bodies: (a) the operculum is formed of four small valves on the summit. (b) ‘* In the shells of the second division, Bivalves, we shall find a greater number of parts. Valves are the different pieces that compose a shell. When both the valves are alike in form, the shell is called equivalve: when the valves are different in the same shell, it is called inequivalve. Mya, Solen, Tellina, are equivalves: Ostrea, Anomia, Pinna, &c. are inequivalves. “ The hinge is formed by the teeth of one valve inserting themselves between those of the other valve, in some genera; in others, by the teeth fitting into the cavities of the other valve (Pare 3. a.) When the teeth are placed in the centre of the hinge they are called cardinal teeth. BS 10 TERMS—BIVALVES. Lateral teeth are situated on the sides of the valves, and are generally long and flat, sometimes hollow. Some hinges are straight, others curved. Here is the hinge of Areca, furnished with many small teeth. (PLate 3, b.) “The ligament is a membrane that connects the valves, and keeps the hinge in its proper place: it is always situated near the beaks. The ligament is very perceptible in the cockle, in Pecten, or scallop, in Y'ellina, &c. “‘ The beaks are the most pointed parts of the bivalve shell (Pxiate 3, c.); when the valves are closed, the line where they meet is called the seam. (PLATE 3, d.) “The anterior slope is that part of the shell where the ligament is placed, and is also called the area. (PLaTE 3, ¢.) The posterior slope, or areola, is the other side of the beaks. (/.) ‘“* The dunwla is a crescent-like depression on either the area or areola. The edge of the valve is called the margin ; it is often finely crenulated, or toothed. The interior of the valve is called the cavity. (g.) In the valves of this ark-shell here are two broad marks, shining and glossy. (g.) In those of the oyster and muscle that I now show you, there is but one. These marks are muscular impressions ; they are the parts where the muscles of the animal have been affixed, and are termed cicatria. Page ZO. — || Calyptrxa Pecten Mvulus Edults Opercuhun TERMS—UNIVALVES. 11 “« Mars are two processes on each side of the beak; the Pecten, or scallop, is an example. (PLATE 3, 7.) ** Sinus, in bivalve shells, is a small hollow in the hinge. ** Byssus, or beard, is an appendage com- posed of silky threads, by which the muscle and Pinna fasten themselves tothe rocks. (PLAatr 3.f.) “ Cordiform is a term applied to heart-shaped shells. , ‘“« A cartilage is the same as a ligament. When the valves of a shell are very nearly flat, they are said to be compressed: when a valve has teeth, it 1s said to be dentated. ‘* When the valves of a shell do not shut close, they are said to be gaping. (Puate 4, Mya.) “ A muscle is a fleshy, pliant organ, by which the animal is attached to its shell. J have already pointed out to you the impressions of those muscles within bivalve shells. “ A suture is a toothed joint, in bivalves. “‘ A shell with ears is said to be auricled. “ The third division, Univalve shells, have also their several parts. The first section has a regular spire. Here are two shells of this section, Voluta and Buccinum, both sawed asunder, in order to show the interior structure of the shell. (Pirate 3.) The aperture, or opening, being if TERMS—UNIVALVES. turned towards you, the front of a univalve is seen; reverse it, and you see the back. ‘“‘ The top, or highest part, is the apex; (a) the lowest part is the base of the shell. (0-.) ‘* The spire (c) is formed of wreaths, or whorls, (ddd) which terminate in the apex: the lowest whorl is the body of the shell. (e.) “The aperture, opening or mouth, (f) as it is sometimes called, is on the right hand when the front of the shell is turned towards you. ‘The aperture is an important distinction in univalves : some genera have a circular opening, as the Turbo, or periwincle; some longitudinal, as the cowry ; others semi-lunar, as the Helix, or snail genus. (For examples of these apertures see Puates | and 7.) ‘‘ The beak is the lengthened process (g) at the lower part, of the shell. ‘“¢ The canal, or gutter, runs through the beak. (Both these parts are perceptible in Murex and Strombus, Puate 7.) ‘< Steres are spiral lines which separate the whorls; they are sometimes crenated, or notched, sometimes sulcated, or furrowed. ‘* The columella, or pillar, extends through the centre of the shell withinside. The Buccinum and Voluta both show the columella. (Pare 3.) ‘‘ The pillar-lip of the aperture, or columella margin, is on the left-hand side of the shell ; the TERMS — UNIVALVES. | Bp: outer lip on the right-hand. Occasionally this order is reversed, but not commonly. ‘“¢ The operculum, or lid, in univalves is that part which fits exactly into the aperture, and in- closes the animal; it serves as a door to the shell. (Piate 3.) The operculum is either horny, like that of the periwincle, or of a harder substance, like the shell itself. : “ The wmbilicus is a circular hole in the body of the shell. This perforation produces a very cu- rious effect when it is very large. When the um- bilicus is wanting, the shell is called imperforate. “ If the spire is truncated, it is decollated ; if it is surrounded with spires, it is coronated, or crowned. “Second section, without a regular spire. The teeth in univalve shells, as the cowry, are ridges upon the aperture. (Puate 1.) In Voluta they are regular folds or plaits upon the colu- mella. “A fissure isa notch or-slit, as in Patella Jissura. (PuLate 3.) “Some shells of this section are internally lipped, as Patella equestris; (Calyptrea ot other authors, PLate 3 ;) some are chambered, as the slipper-limpet; some ar ecap-shaped, having the apex much curved—these are the cap-limpets. 14 TERMS—UNIVALVES. “« The vertex in Patella is as the superincum- bent part of the shell. ““'The epidermis is the outward skin that covers the surface of some shells. “* Fauces are narrow entrances, as at each end of the cowry. “* Tubercles are protuberances, or knobs, on the surfaces of shells. “‘ Série are raised or flat lines upon the surfaces of shells. When the surface is marked with lines longitudinally and transversely, it is decussated. “ Sulci are furrows. ‘* Fornicated signifies arched, greatly exca- vated. ‘© Umbo is the swelling part near the beak of bivalve shells; the same as boss. “« Longitudinal, running nearly the whole length of the shell in univalves. “ Concentric, having the same centre. “¢ Convolute, when the exterior whorls spirally invole the interior. “* Varices, longitudinal, gibbous sutures formed in the shell, at certain distances on the whorls. “© Carinated, having the form of the keel of a boat.” SYSTEM OF LINNEUS. 15 CHAPTER III. ‘* As you both assure me,” said Mr. Elliot, ‘‘ that you do not fail to make yourselves familiar with the nomenclature, or terms, used in con- chology, I shall proceed this morning to the ar- rangement of Linnéus. ‘« ‘This system is established upon the outward appearances, or external characters, of the cover- ing bestowed by nature upon the animal, not upon the form of the animal itself. *¢ The three principal divisions you are already acquainted with, namely, Multivalves, shells composed of several parts called valves; Bivalves, formed of two parts; and Univalves, composed of one part or piece only. ‘“‘ These divisions contain several genera, and the genera usually include many individual shells, but occasionally only one. ‘* The characters of every genus are permanent, and are therefore to be observed in every one of the species contained in the genus. ‘“ Species are determined by shape, colours, or q 16 LINN-EAN GENERA. appearances on the surface of the shell: there are sometimes many varieties of the same species. ‘* The Linnzean genera are thirty-six. I have copied a list of them for you. In that tray are the specimens mentioned in your list: ARRANGEMENT OF LINNZUS. First Division—Muiltivalves : 3 genera. BS Chiton, coat of mail, example, C. sqiamosa. x Lepas, acorn-shell or barnacle, ex. L. anatifera and tintinnabulum. a Pholas, stone-piercer, ex. P. candida. Srconp Diviston.—Bivalves: 14 genera. * Mya, trough-shell, ex. M. traneata. Ba Solen, razor-sheath, ex. S. siliqua. * Tell ina, wedge-shell, ex. 7’. Feroensis. * Cardium, cockle, ex. C. cardissa. * Mactra, kneading-trough, ex. M. stultorum. * Donax, wedge-shell, ex. D. trunculus. * Venus, Venus, ex. V. Paphia. Spondylus, thorny oyster, ex. S. gederopus. Chama, clamp-shell, ex. C. gigas. * Arca, ark-shell, ex. 4. Noe. * Ostrea, oyster, ex. O. isognomon. * Anomia, antique lamp, ex. A. ephippium. * Mytilus, muscle, ex. M. edulis. * Pinna, wing-shell, ex. P. pectinata. * LINNEAN GENERA. Ly Tuirp Drvision: 2 sections.—Ist. Univalves with a regular spire: 14 genera. Argonauta, paper-sailor, ex. A. argo. Nautilus, sailor, ex. N. pompilius. Conus, cone, ex. C. Hebreus. ' * Cyprea, cowry, ex. C. moneta. * Bulla, dipper, ex. B. naucum. * Voluta, wreath, ex. V. wtriculus. * Buccinum, whelk, ex. B. reticulatum. Strombus, screw, ex. S'. pes-pelicani. * Murex, rock-shell, ex. M. ramosus. * Trochus, top-shell, ex. 7’. bifaciatus. * Turbo, wreath, ex. 7’. muricatus. * Helix, snail, ex. H. nemoralis. * Nerita, nerite, ex. N. striata. * Halictis, ear-shell, ex. H. tuberculdta. 2d Section, without a regular spire: 5 genera. \* Patella, limpet, ex. P. vulgata. * Dentalium, tooth-shell, ex. D. elephantinum. * Sérpula, worm-shell, ex. 8. triquétra. Teredo, ship-worm, ex. 7’. navalis. * Sabella, Sabella, ex. S. Belgica. Total number of genera in the arrangement of Linneeus, thirty-six. The genera marked with an asterisk, contain species found in Britain. 18 CHITON. LEPAS. ** Multivalves may be divided into two kinds, the pedunculated, or those fixed to other bodies, as rocks, stones, planks, &c.; or free, as the Chiton and Pholas. “ Our first genus is Chiton. The shell is easily known. The fixed character is, many valves placed over each other along the back. I have already noticed the membrane which connects the valves, which is also a permanent character. It is elastic: the sides are either scaly, as in C. squamosus, (Puiare 1,) and hairy, or spinous. The species are determined by the margins. Some of the Chiton genus are common upon our own coasts; they are frequently found among sea- weed and stones, rolled up like a ball. C. fasci- culdris and C. levis are British; there are some other British species. The animal adheres to rocks, like the Patella, or limpet. The number of species forty. “Second genus, Lepas. Shell multivalve, fixed at the base; valves erect, or upright. “Observe how much the situation of the valves differs in Chiton and Lepas. It is scarcely pos- sible to mistake the one for the other. The feathery tentacula, or feelers, of Lepas anatifera are worthy notice, and in a state of motion must be yet more beautiful. (Piare 2.) The com- mon acorn-shell, L. balanus, is to be seen very frequently upon the shells of muscles, oysters, PHOLAS. 19 periwincles, whelks, in large groups. I see that you are examining the different appearance of the pedunculated and the sessile Lepades. Linnzeus made two divisions; later writers have separated them into several distinct genera, which will be noticed when we attend to Lamarck’s system. The species are forty-five, of which several are found on the British shores, as L. tulipa. L. dia- dema, L. tintinnabulum, L. balanus, L. ana- tifera, &c. The Indian, American, and Atlantic oceans afford numerous species. “ Third genus, Pholas. Generic character : shell bivalve, gaping or divaricated, with several smaller hinges situated upon the hinge; hinge recurved, with an incurved tooth.” ‘‘ Father,”’ said Charles, “ I must say that the Pholas shell is very unlike those of the multivalve division: I- think it should rank with bivalves.” “* So many conchologists have judged ; never- theless it possesses more than éwo valves, and, according to the system, it must be forced into the division of multivalves. ““'The Pholades are found in company, but each individual occupies a distinct habitation, which the animal excavates for itself, either in rocks, in wood, coral, or sponge; but the finest specimens are usually to be seen in chalk. In proportion as the animal increases In size, it en- larges the cavity in which it is stationed. The 20 PHOLAS, animal is supposed to effect this operation by means of a corroding fluid that is secreted in the body, and which it has the power of ejecting upon the substance into which it has entered. ““'The Pholas has the power of emitting a phosphoric liquor, which shines with brilliancy in the dark. ‘“¢ J must remind you that the accessory valves are fixed to the margin of the shell by a gelatinous substance; this decays after the death of the animal, and consequently the smaller valves are frequently wanting. ‘*‘ The number of species is twelve. Several of them are found on our coasts. The Pholas genus is without colour, but the reticulations in some species are exceedingly delicate. Pholas candidus (Puare 3) is found on the shores of Kent; you will be pleased with the shells. Pholas dactylus is larger and coarser, and not at all uncommon. “We have now finished our first division, and must proceed to the bivalves.” MYA. Z| CHAPTER, 1y- Sreconp Division.—Bivalves: 14 genera. ‘¢ | rear,” said Charles, “ that this new division will be rather difficult, for my father tells me that we must pay particular attention to the hinges of bivalve shells.” ‘* Then apply yourself to the study of hinges, Charles, and your difficulties will chiefly disap- pear,” answered Mr. Elliot. ‘* The hinge of Mya, the first on the list, is easily known. The generic characters are, shell gaping at one end, hinge mostly with one thick spreading tooth, not inserted into the opposite valve. The Mya race burrow in the sand. Here is Mya arenaria, a large thick shell, frequent on the shores of Kent: the large tooth is suffi- ciently plain in ¢his species. Mya truncata (PLATE 4) is as common, and the curious mem- branous case, which you will find attached to one end of the shell, is a guide to the species. Both these species are without colour, and have little to attract in their outward appearance. The genus, 92 SOLEN. TELLINA. however, according to Linneeus, varies exceed- ingly, and contains forty-one species. “« Solen. Shell bivalve, open at both ends, tooth of the hinge subulate, or awl-shaped, reflex, often double. ‘* In this genus, the great length, in comparison with the breadth of the shells in many of the species, is remarkable: some are exceedingly brittle. Our example, Solen siliqua (PiatE 1) is a British species. The hinge is not in the centre of the shell, but nearer to one end of it. Some are shaped like the handle of aknifeor a razor, others are bent resembling the blade of a scimitar. The Solem lives in the sands of the sea-shore, often burying itself two feet deep, and retaining its shell in a vertical position: thirty-five species. “The genus J'ellina is remarkable for the beauty of the shells, and, according to the ar- rangement of Linnzeus, contains ninety-seven species. The exterior is sometimes marked with radiations: the surface of some shells is very finely polished, while in others it is covered with strie and undulations. The species that you have placed before me, Lucy, is Z'el/ina Fero- ensis; the shell is finely striated, and has also radiations. (PLATE 4.) ‘‘The generic characters are chiefly these : shell compressed towards the anterior slope, teeth CARDIUM. MACTRA. 93 of the hinge mostly three, the lateral ones smooth, in one valve. ‘Two or three small species are common on our coasts. I should also observe that there is a convex fold on one valve and a concave fold upon the other. Many of the Tell/ina genus are found buried in the sea-sands. “* Cardium. Generic character: shell equi- valve, convex, ribbed, striated, or grooved, the margin toothed: hinge with two teeth near the beak, and a lateral one on each side: fifty-four species. *¢ Observe how the beaks of thiscommon Car- dium, cockle, turn inwards, and the bosses pro- ject. Another striking character is the ribs, that are generally longitudinal, and not concentric or transverse, as in T'elléma, and, as you will see, in Venus. C.aculeatuwm has small spines on the valves; C. costatwm, the ribbed cockle, is one of the finest species of this genus, and C. cardissa is a beautiful shell. (Prate 4.) The common cockle is Cardiwm edule. Mactra. Generic character: shell bivalve, unequal sided, middle tooth of the hinge compli- cated, with a small hollow on each side, and lateral side-teeth: thirty-seven species. “ The shells of this genus are usually thin, brittle, and remarkably light. Mactra stultorum is 2 common species. (PLATE 4.) *« Donax. Margin of the shell often crenulate, 24 DONAX. VENUS. the anterior slope very obtuse ; hinge with two cardinal teeth, and one lateral tooth. ‘‘ The most striking characteristic of Donawx is the broad, thick extremity of one end, gradually lessening towards the other. A rich purple tint is very frequent in these shells. Donax denticu- latus and trunculus are common British exam- ples. (Puate 4.) You must remark the liga- ment of Donaw, which is exterior. ‘¢ Our next genus ranks highest for beauty among the bivalves, and takes its name from the goddess Venws. The species amount to one hundred and sixteen in the Linnzean system, but other authors have formed several new genera. ** Shell bivalve, having the lips incumbent on the anterior margin ; hinge with three teeth, all approximate, the lateral ones diverging at the lip. “ T amafraid,” said Lucy, “that we shall find this genus very difficult: I wish you would tell us the new genera that have been formed out of it.” ‘“‘ Learn first to know the general appearance of Venus, and remark especially the ¢eeth. You may also bear in mind that the beaks are almost always turned fo the posterior slope, and from the ligament. The area and areola are also very conspicuous: the area is generally large, and dif- ferently coloured to the disk. Venews Paphia is pretty.(PLare 4.) ‘Phe spinous species, V. Dione, is more beautiful, and is the only shell of the v: & M3 (oe 44) } Nyon 84 ; s/h vi a. say ae - at at fb Te ( ess vs : ‘ a : uta a Plate 4. Lage 24. VMactra Stultorum SLT Donax Denticutata Cardium Cardissa SPONDYLUS. 95 genus that has spines. The brown Venus, V. chioné, is very smooth and polished; both species are frequent in collections. The British shells of this genus are neither numerous nor very beautiful. “ Spondylus. Valves unequal, rough ; hinge with two recurved teeth, with a hollow between them; shell sometimes eared. (See PLares 4 and 5.) “ T think,” said Lucy, “that the English name, thorny oyster, is not very suitable : itis more like a scallop; but it differs from both in having two strong teeth in the hinge, and I observed this morning that neither the oyster nor the scallop have any hinge.” “So that was the object you had in view,” said Charles, “‘ when you were so quietly handling those shells in the kitchen: I confess I could hardly help laughing; and now my father will say that you are ‘ Eyes,’ and I the ‘ No Eyes,’ of ‘Evenings at Home.’ ”’ “‘ Perhaps I might have made the observation, ” replied Mr. Elliot ; ‘‘ but you have reproved your- self, which is far better. * Spondylus can scarcely be mistaken from any other bivalve shell. The species gedaropus is remarkable for its projecting beak ; the surface is rough, with either tubercles or spines. Some authors reckon only four species, others thirteen, c 26 CHAMA. ARCA. OSTREA. The S‘pondyli are frequently found attached to rocks at some depth in the ocean. The animal is eaten on the coasts of the Mediterranean. We have no British Spondylus. “Chama. Shell thick; hinge with a thick tooth, sometimes crenate, obliquely inserted into a corresponding channel. (PiatEe5.) The shells of this genus vary greatly, which you will per- ceive upon comparing C. gigas and C. cor. (See Puate 9, Isocardia cor.) The Chama genus is usually ribbed, foliated, or scaly. C. Lazarus is a beautiful species: C. cor is a British species, and the only one. ‘The whole number is twenty- five. ‘< Here is Noah’s-ark, an example of the genus Arca, and is found on our own coasts. The long hinge beset with sharp teeth, inserted into each other, renders the genus sufficiently marked ; but in some species the hinge is curved. The form varies exceedingly. The number of species is forty-five. (PuarTeE 5.) ‘‘ Ostrea. In this well-known genus we lose sight of the toothed hinge. Take that Pecten, or scallop, which belongs to one division of Ostrea in this system, and tell me what holds the valves together. Charles is silent; what says Lucy ?” ‘Here are the remains of the same kind of substance which we saw in Donaxv and in Venus. I think it is called the ligament.” ccd Ostirvea lscgnomon A Tca Ni 1® Lage 26. ANOMIA. MYTILUS. 27 “¢ Very well remembered,” continued her father. ‘‘ The generic character of this very large portion of bivalves is, shell bivalve, usually with unequal valves: hinge without teeth, having a hollow cavity or sinus, and sometimes grooved. Here is a young common oyster, and, according to the tule of our present system, this shell, Ostrea wsognomon, is of the same genus, (Puare 5.) The number of species is eighty-four, of which thirteen are British. The old shells of common oysters are often covered with Serpula, Lepas, and Anomia, and some kinds of corallines. The next genus, Anomia, is remarkable for the thin, delicate, and almost transparent ap- pearance of the shells. The valves are unequal, and frequently perforated near the apex; hinge toothless ; in the flat valve, two bony rays. “ Anomia epiphippium has a large perfora- tion, through which the animal passes a ligament, and attaches itself to other substances. These shells are often to be found on oysters. (Patz 5.) Species thirty-two. “* Mytilus. The principal characters are, shell bivalve, rough, often affixed by a thick byssus, or beard; hinge without teeth, with a hollow line extending lengthways. (PuaTE 3.) * The common muscle, Mytilus edulis, must be well known to you, and also the fine polish that the shells will take when cleared of the rough e 2 28 PINNA. exterior by artificial means, Mytilus harbatus is not unfrequent on our shores; the colour is brown, and the shell is shaggy. Number of species, forty-nine. ‘Our last bivalve genusis Pinna. The generic characters—shell bivalve, brittle, erect, gaping at one end, throwing out a byssus ; hinge without teeth. (PLATE 6.) “‘ The Pinna race are found plentifully in the Mediterranean, the Indian, American, and At- lantic oceans: the British seas afford three species. The genus is noted for producing a fine byssus, that is manfactured in Italy into various articles, as gloves. The animal is sometimes used as an article of food. ** An ancient writer asserts that the Pinna is attended by a crab, that finds a habitation in its shell, and repays the favour by giving notice, by a gentle nip, when a fish comes within reach ; the Pinna opens the valves of the shell, and se- cures the prey, which serves for the food of both. Now, Charles, you know the whole sense of the quotation— ‘** The anchor’d pinna and his cancer friend.’ ”’ ARGONAUTA. 29 CHAPTER V. Turrp Division.— Univalves. ~ by) “‘ WatHer,” said Lucy, the next time they met to pursue their study, ‘“‘ I think we have made ourselves familiar with the various hinges of the bivalve shells, which are becoming favourites with us; but from the variety of fine specimens which you have on your table, I see that we shall be much gratified in examining the univalve division.” 39 “¢ My first genus is very beautiful,’’ replied Mr. Elliot ; ‘‘it is Argonauta, or paper-sailor. The shell is univalve, involute, unilocular, or without chambers : the aperture cordate. (PLATE 6.) These shells are spiral, and remarkably brittle. The argonauts are supposed to be the shells that taught mankind the use of sails in the earliest ages of society. In calm weather the animal rises with its shell to the surface of the water, and spreads its arms over the edge; these arms answer the purpose of oars. It then spreads a membrane for a sail, which can be turned in any direction, and is impelled forwards by the 30 NAUTILUS. CONUS. breeze: two other arms serve as rudders to direct the course. The animal first raises itself to the surface of the sea by ejecting a quantity of water ; if danger occurs, it absorbs water, and thus, by making itself heavier, sinks to the bottom. The species are few in number. “ Nautilus, pearly sailor, has several charac- teristics of Argonauta; but the former is con- camerate, the latter without chambers in the shell. The generic characters of Nautilus are, shell univalve, divided into several compartments, communicating with each other by an aperture. Nautilus pompilius is often cut through, or bi- sected, to display the chambers of the shell. In the East, the shells are formed into drinking- cups. Sometimes the outer coat of the shell is removed, and the pearly surface finely carved. This genus, according to Linneus, consists of fifty-eight species, some of which are fossil. (Piste 6.) ‘“‘ In the following genera we must pay particu- lar attention to the apertwre of the shell, which is a generic distinction in most univalves. “The first is Conus, a large and beautiful genus, including many rare and valuable species. Shell univalve, turbinate, aperture effuse, or having the lips separated by a sinus, linear, without teeth, pillar smooth. In their natural state the shells are usually covered with an epi- “ yt 7a wee “a =. «= oe LF : , a ie ” its wrt Ps oe ; wae y ba ‘ " 7 oe ae 4 > a 2 has : ay q * ; es b 9 * ae m = 7 - S - _s : & - 7 —-_ : - eS =. ie : Ape . mn [ ; _ ; Baa as ; ae = ra ’ 7 7 P - ~ , ; # > = = > 5 3 = . . = * io e 7 : 1, Li ein ae, oe 3 u 4 i, a a hn s; - “sl _ ro , — —. pe : ~. = ie a 7) 4 ; - _—- ° , be ” y in 4 Gar a a Se -* oa : e ; a t’ ‘ < : = a i h aa ‘ : ; » ’ 7 - “ “4 - . ps 4 2 - - ‘4 Cw. ~ - - 7 “pp: ’ ." “A yo’ ¢ - eu ee 7 = o a ‘ ay = : ae. — es et =e i : y Z 7 F = oy if a z a tt 7 ~ 7 E at! o> Oa a . es - = b ’ ~ i ry = Pomel ey 7 > ea 4 oy a . “< ae : pel 4 ¢ Riki Ripe hei ‘ili fa te a Vcheaiphcr be) Cae plates ial he Se sit ig whi a ie ae thy fe . an > Sat a Heep eer “ik oe , - ae P bed - kak oan t ey Was SF Ie : Plate 6. Page 30. Conus Hebreiss i | Voluta Utricailies ———— ed CYPREA. BULLA. $1 dermis; but will bear a brilliant polish. C. tew- tilis, cloth of gold, is valuable. C. generalis is sometimes sold for twenty guineas. ‘The example on the table is C. Ebr@us, or Hebrew cone. (PxateE 6.) Species one hundred and fifty-five ; not one British. The greater number are brought from the Indian Ocean; some from the seas of Africa and from the South Sea. ‘“‘ The shells of the genus Cyprea, cowry, are general favourites: the species are fifty-eight ; one British, C. pediculus. C. moneta (PLATE 1) is very common. ‘The generic characters are, shell univalve, involute, obtuse, smooth; aperture linear, the whole length of the shell; effuse at both ends, toothed on each side. “ Look carefully at those three shells: do you perceive much resemblance between them ? ‘Not much, if any,’ you reply, yet they are all of the genus Bulla. Here is B. lignaria, B. terebellum, (see Frontisriece,) and B. naucum. (Pate6.) There are other forms, as the 2. ovwm, B. volva, the first#somewhat like a cowry ; but it is toothed only on one side of the aperture ; the second has two long beaks. “This genus is confessedly ill-determined. B. naucum and B. ampulla are examples of the common characters of the genus. The species are sixty-one. ** Voluta is also a large genus, containing one 5 VOLUTA. BUCCINUM. hundred and eighty-six species. Shell univalve, aperture without a beak, and somewhat effuse ; columella platted. This latter character we meet with for the first time. Here is the common Voluta. (Puate6.) The genus has been much diminished by forming other very striking genera out of it, as I shall soon show you, under the names of Mitres, Olives, Gondolas, &c. Voluta musica, the music-shell, is remarkable, and not at all rare. “* Buccinum is another large genus. The shell univalve, spiral, gibbous ; aperture ovate, ending in a canal turning to the right, with a short beak ; pillar-lip expanded. Species, one hundred and seventy-two. “You must recollect that when the apex of the shell is turned downwards the canal turns to the right, when it is turned wpaards the canal will be to the left hand. My example is Buccinum reticulatum, a very common species upon our own shores.” (PLare 7.) ‘* Is not this genus reduced by other authors ? ’ asked Charles. “ Greatly,” replied Mr. Elliot: “you will meet with tuns, helmets, harps, and needles. Species of the Buccinum genus are found in the African, American, Indian, European, and Southern oceans. Kighteen occur upon our coasts. STROMBUS. MUREX. 33 © Strombus contains forty-four species. Shell univalve, spiral, aperture much dilated, the lip expanding, ending in a canal inclining towards the left. ** You must notice the sinus in the outer lip, near the base of the shell. Strombus gigas, the West Indian conch, is very large. Some species have the lip ending in claws. Strombus pes-peli- cani, the pelican’s-foot, has four palmated claws : (Puare 7:) itis a British shell. The city of Santa Cruz, in America, is paved with the shells of Strombus gigas. ‘« The genus Murex is both large and beauti- ful. Shell univalve, spiral; aperture oval, end- ing in a straight canal. ‘¢ These shells are of very unequal form ; their surfaces frequently covered with spines, knobs, or foliations. Some are remarkable for the great length of the beak, (FRontisprece,) such as the woodcock, the snipe’s-head, and Venus’s-comb. The Murex before you is foliated. (PuLaTe 7.) The species are one hundred and seventy-one. Several are found on British coasts, but they are not remarkable for beauty. * The top-shell, Trochus, is univalve, conic, spiral; the aperture either angular or rounded ; columella oblique: some of the apertures have a tooth-like projection. (PLATE 7.) Species, one hundred and thirty. Several kinds occur in co 34 TROCHUS. TURBO. HELIX. Britain. New Zealand, Friendly Isles, Red Sea, and most other seas, afford the various species. Two of this genus have the power of collecting parts of shells and other testaceous substances, which adhere strongly to the whorls of the shell: it is called the Conchologist. ‘The other, named Mineralogist, is loaded with stones, pebbles, ores, &c. When heavily laden they are consi- dered rarities. ‘‘ There is a great similarity between the genera Turbo and Trochus. You must observe the generic distinction carefully. Shell univalve, spiral; aperture contracted, orbicular, entire. The one hundred and sixty-seven species have been much divided by other writers. The golden- mouthed Turbo is a very fine shell. This genus also contains the common periwincle, an inhabitant of most European shores. Sailors report that if the animal is seen creeping high up the rocks, it foretells stormy weather. Turbo muricatus is a pretty shell.” (Piare 7.) ‘* Now we can tell the next genus,” said Lucy. “© Helix, snail. But what a number of different shapes, father, those shells have! they are not all snails, I should think, that you have placed on the table.” : “¢ According to Linneus they are all of the genus Helix, which contains two hundred and sixty-seven species. Many kinds are land- Plate 7 4 : Page 34 ih Pet , ey) Pe fea PAR Ea CNA a) Lan, eens ie ap titrant : een) \ o anion Cal oil Boy Saat spot cane wh oe ' vy, al ' 4s re \ , : ql ; OW ae ay. Mpeg Lan ‘ eo SR AS Eh 4 Mi & im ‘ ‘i he a. ay | ‘pepe ‘ a Nee diy i iu ids Pig ity UY Sataa ik ay as or Reece af iu. y NERITA. HALIOTIS. 35 shells; others live in fresh water; few inhabit the sea. *‘ Shell univalve, spiral, brittle; aperture con- tracted, semilunar, or roundish. The common snail is well known to most persons. Helix ne- moralis, the wood-snail, is very pretty ; some- times it is pink, with brown bands, or plain yellow, or yellowy banded with brown. (Puate 7.) The greater part of this genus consists of shells remarkable for their thin, brittle, and semi- transparent substances. ‘