•NRLF
BIOLOGY
LIBRARY
WODARCH'S
INTRODUCTION
TO
THE STUDY OF CONCHOLOGY:
DESCRIBING
©rlrm, <&enew, attlr
SHELLS:
WITH
OBSERVATIONS ON THE NATURE AND PROPERTIES
OF THE ANIMALS;
DIRECTIONS FOR COLLECTING, PRESERVING, AND
CLEANING SHELLS. . ' . *
j. MAWE;
Author of Familiar Lessons on Mineralogy and Geolog/; Treatise'oh Diamonds and Precious
Stones; Travels in South America, and through the Gold and
Diamond Districts of Brazil, &c- &c.
FOURTH EDITION,
omsitrerafcle UtiUitions antJ '^Iterations.
LONDON:
PUBLISHED BY LONGMAN, REES, ORME, BROWN, AND GREEN,
PATERNOSTER ROW;
AND BY S. MAWE, 149, STRAND.
1833.
.
We.
BIOLOGY
LIBRARY
WILLIAM H, FLOYD
COLLECTION.
LONDON:
w. M'DOWALI,, PRINTER, pEMBEUTax HOW,
GOUOH SQUARE.
PREFACE.
AT is a circumstance no less to be lamented than wonder-
ed at, that, in the present enlightened age, when the culti-
vation of science, and natural history in particular, is so
eminently conspicuous, Conchology, or the natural history
of shells, should have participated so sparingly of that ac-
tive spirit of research and investigation, which has been so
lavishly bestowed on almost all other branches.
ONE obvious reason, however, may be assigned, why
Conchology has remained so long stationary in the lists of
improvement. Till lately, no publications on shells have
appeared, but such as were abstruse, voluminous, expen-
sive, and difficult of access; and as most of them were in
languages not always thoroughly understood, the attain-
ment of knowledge through their means frequently be-
came a source of difficulty and trouble.
IT is perhaps from this very circumstance, that many
individuals who possess fine and rare shells, are totally ig-
M94091
norant of any systematic mode of arranging them; the
consequence is, they are suffered to remain in the cabinets
like a collection of unknown gems, whose intrinsic value
their proprietor being unacquainted with, they are incapa-
ble of affording amusement, information, or profit to him.
INFLUENCED by the repeated observation of the occur-
rence of these difficulties, it appeared desirable, that the
public should be put in possession of some compendious or
abridged treatise on Conchology, which would at once
enable the young student to arrange his collection syste-
matically, and at the same time tend to enhance the value
of that science, which, for want of a proper key, or book
of introduction, has remained too long in neglected ob-
scurity.
To accomplish this, it appeared only necessary to select
the choicest materials contained in more elaborate works,
and arrange them in such order as would afford all the in-
struction requisite for the information and improvement of
the young Conchologist, in a concentrated, perspicuous, and
purchasable form.
IT has been made a point, throughout the work, to ad-
here rigidly to the Linnaean system, on the strong pre-
sumption, that it would always prove the surest basis on
which a more modern superstructure might be raised.
BUT, as other less celebrated naturalists have also con-
tributed their quantum of information on the subject of
Conchology, it has been thought prudent to add whatever
they have urged of most importance ; and as it is a matter
of consequence for the learner to call in the aid of figures
as well as description, it was thought proper to annex fac-
similes of the most prominent species of the different ge-
nera of shells; and as they are from nature, the correct-
ness of their delineation may be depended upon.
IT was also deemed necessary, in order to render the
work more generally useful and acceptable, to submit a
concise account of the nature, habits, and uses of shell-fish ;
as well as some serviceable hints and directions as to the
best modes of collecting and cleaning shells.
CHARLES WODARCH.
ADVERTISEMENT
THE FOURTH EDITION.
AN this Edition the new species recently discovered have
been added; and a considerable alteration has been made
in the arrangement of the species of each genus, with a
view to afford greater facility to the student's acquiring a
knowledge of their distinctive characters.
IT would have been beyond the scope of an elementary
work of this nature to have described every species ; but we
have endeavoured, by forming numerous divisions and fa-
milies, and affixing to each a concise description, so to
class together the species, that the student will have little
difficulty in assigning any shell that may present itself to
his observation to its proper division and family; and
should the shell have obtained a name descriptive of a
leading character, he will have no difficulty in discovering
it by referring to the lists of scientific and English or tri-
vial names accompanying the genera.
FRONTISPIECE.
Fig. 1. Murex Foliatus. Foliated Murex.
2. Regius • • Royal Murex.
3. Radix- • • Root or Black-spined Murex.
CONTENTS.
GLOSSARY ...... ............................. Page
CHAPTER I.
General Observations ........................ . ...... 9
Properties of animals inhabiting shells ....... ... ..... . . 10
Customary uses to which shells and their inhabitants are
converted .................................. .... 10
Enemies to shells and shell-fish .................. .... 12
Directions for collecting shells, and arranging them systema-
tically ......................................... 14
Methods of preserving and cleaning shells ....... . ...... 15
CHAPTER II.
Description of the animals inhabiting shells ... .......... 18
CHAPTER III.
CLASSIFICATION .................................. 21
I. Multivalves .................................... 21
II. Bivalves ...................................... 21
III. Univalves. — 1. With a regular spire .............. 22
2. Without a regular spire ............ 23
XII
CONTENTS.
ORDER I.— MULTIVALVES.
Chiton 25 | Lepas 28
Pholas.. ..32
ORDER II.— BIVALVES.
Mya
35
Solen 38
Tellina 39
Cardium 42
Mactra 45
Donax 47
Venus 49
Spondylus . . . . • 53
Chama 55
Area. .
Ostrea.
58
80
Anomia 67
Mytilus 70
Pinna 73
ORDER III.— UNIVALVES.
Argonauta 76
Nautilus 78
Conus 80
Cypraea • 84
Bulla 87
Voluta 90
Buccinum 96
Strombus 103
Murex 106
Troclms 113
Turbo 118
Helix 125
Nerita 132
Haliotis 135
Patella 138
Dentalium 142
Serpula 144
Teredo 146
Sabella 147
Explanation of the Plates 151
GLOSSARY
TERMS USED IN CONCHOLOGY.
Acuminated, terminated in a sharp point.
Anterior, (in Univalves) the part which forms the spire :
(in Bivalves), see Margin.
Aperture, the orifice or opening of the shell; it is called
angular, when its circumference has several angles : bi-
marginated, when the right lip forms a double margin :
coarctate, contracted: compressed, flattened: gaping,
when one of the extremities is wider than the other:
linear, when narrow, and the length greatly exceeds the
breadth : transverse, when the breadth is greater than
the length. (These terms are applied to Univalves).
Apex, the tip or small end of a shell.
Articulated, (applied to Multivalves), when the different
pieces of which the shell is composed are so strongly
united, that they appear to form one shell: (when ap-
plied to Bivalves), see Teeth.
Auriculated, having ears.
Base, (applied to Multivalves), the part on which the shell
is supported : (to Univalves), the most elevated part of
the shell, opposite to the spire.
Beak, Beaked, having the extremity of the base of the
shell elongated and contracted in the form of a beak.
lis is of a bristly or hairy na-
ture.
Bifid, forked.
Byssus, a hair-like substance formed by some of the ani-
mals of Bivalves, by which they attach themselves to
extraneous bodies. See plate 6, Jig. 1.
Callous, indurated.
Callus, a thick excrescence.
Canal, the prolongation of the mouth in a kind of groove
or gutter, as in the Murex and Strombus.
Canaliculated, channelled or grooved.
Cardinal, see Teeth.
Carinated, having the form of a boat's keel.
Cartilage, see Ligament.
Cartilaginous, resembling a ligament.
Chambered, when the shell is internally divided by par-
titions parallel to the aperture.
Ciliated, surrounded with parallel filaments.
Clavate, club-shaped.
Columella, that part of the shell round which the whirls
turn.
Compressed, (in Bivalves), when the valves are nearly flat,
or flattened.
Concamerated, see Chambered.
Convolute, when the whirls turn round a lengthened cone,
nearly vertical to each other.
Cordiform, heart-shaped.
Coronated, having the apex surrounded with a row of tu-
bercles or spines.
Crenated, Crenulate, having blunt teeth.
Decollated, having the spire or upper part of the shell
truncated transversely.
GLOSSARY. 3
Decussated, intersected by striae at acute angles.
Dentated, having teeth.
Diaphanous, transparent.
Digitated, having projecting claws.
Divaricated, obliquely striated.
Dorsal, belonging to the back.
Ears, external projections on the sides of the hinge, (see
plate 6, fa. 5.)
Effuse, having the lip separated by a gutter.
Emarginate, having the margin excavated by a canal.
Epidermis, the outer skin or covering of a shell.
Equilateral, when the anterior and posterior parts of a
shell are exactly similar.
Equivalve, (applied to Multi valves), when the two princi-
pal valves have the same form, size, and position : (to
Bivalves), when the two valves are exactly similar.
Exserted, very thin or slender.
Fissure, a notch or slit, (see plate 4t,fig- 57.)
Furrow, a gutter or groove running parallel to the hinge
in Bivalves.
Fusiform, spindle-shaped.
Gaping, (in Bivalves), when the valves do not shut close :
(in Univalves), when the lower part of the lips is dis-
tended.
Gibbosity, a swelling.
Gibbous, swelled.
Glabrous, smooth.
Hinge, the part where the valves are united, and gene-
rally furnished with one or more teeth : it is said to be
compressed, when it is formed of one compressed tooth :
B2
GLOSSARY.
lateral, when placed on one side of the shell : reflected,
when its edges are folded over the exterior margin : ter-
minal, if situated at the extremity of the shell: and
truncated, if the beaks of the shell appear to have been
transversely cut off, and the teeth of the hinge fixed to
this part.
Hispid, covered with hairs, as in the Helix hispida.
Imbricate, when the surface is covered with scales parti-
ally over-lapping each other.
Imperforate, having no umbilicus.
Inequilateral, when the anterior and posterior parts of the
shell are dissimilar.
Ineguivalve, when the valves are dissimilar.
Involute, without a spire, as in the Patellae.
Keeled, see Carinated.
Labium, see Lip.
Lenticular, when the valves are round, and diminish in
thickness from the centre towards the edges.
Lid, see Operculum.
Ligament, a membranous substance which connects the
valves : it is both interior and exterior in the generality
of Bivalves.
Linear, when the length of the shell is greater than its
breadth, and its form not cylindrical.
Linguiform, tongue-shaped.
Lip, (in Univalves), the sides of the aperture : (in Bivalves),
the exterior edge of the valves.
Lunar or Lunate, having a crescent form.
Margin, the edge of the shell: anterior, the space in which
the ligament is situated; posterior, the space on the
GLOSSARY. 5
other side of the hinge ; superior, the space between the
anterior and posterior parts.
Maryinate, (in Univalves), having the sides of the shell
thickened: (in Bivalves), surrounded with an elevated
margin.
Mouth, see Aperture.
Muscular impressions, are the marks made by the muscles
with which the animal adheres to the shell, as in the com-
mon oyster.
Obovate, nearly oval.
Obsolete, obliterated.
Obtuse, blunt pointed.
Operculum, (in Multi valves), the stellular valves which
shut up the superior orifice: (in Univalves), the part
which exactly fits into the aperture, and incloses the
animal.
Papillary, having the apex rounded.
Papyraceous, of the thinness of paper.
Patulous, gaping.
Pectinated, when the longitudinal ribs on the anterior sur-
face form acute angles with the transverse striae.
Peduncle, a tendinous substance belonging to some of the
Multivalves, by means of which they adhere to solid
bodies.
Pillar, see Columella.
Pillar-lip, that side of the aperture in which the columel-
la is situated.
Pisiform, pea-like.
Plaited, when the columella is toothed, as in Volutes.
Posterior, see Margin.
Reticulated, like net-work.
D GLOSSARY.
Retuse, when the lower whirls are pressed into the body.
Rostrum, see Beak.
Rugose, wrinkled.
Scabrous, rough.
Serrated, toothed like a saw.
Semilunar, like a half-moon.
Sessile, low, dwarf.
Sinuous, waved.
Sinus, a deep cut, as in the lip of the Murex Babylonius.
Siphon, a prolonged tube running through the partitions
of chambered shells.
Slope, the side from the beaks.
Spinous, having prickles or thorns.
Spire, is formed by the whole of the upper whirls.
Strice, lines flat, or slightly raised: they are called longi-
tudinal, when they run from hinge to margin ; trans-
verse, when in a contrary direction ; and concentric, when
they form segments of circles.
Subcordate, approaching the form of a heart.
Subpellucid, not quite clear.
Subulate, tapering.
Superior, see Margin.
Suture, a toothed joint.
Teeth, (in Univalves), angular plaits, as on the pillar lip
of Volutes : (in Bivalves), pointed protuberances with-
in the hinge, by which the valves are united. They
are called: alternate, when the teeth of one valve are
received between the teeth of the other valve; articu-
lated, when the tooth is received into a corresponding
cavity in the opposite valve ; cardinal, the central tooth
or teeth of the hinge ; compressed, when flattened ; erect,
perpendicular to the plane of the hinge ; forked, having
GLOSSARY. 7
the point divided into two; longitudinal, when it extends
along the margin.
Tubercle, a protuberance or knob.
Tuberculated, having elevations resembling warts.
Tubular, (applied to Multivalves), when the greater part
of the shell is cylindrical.
Turbinated, when the belly of the shell is large in propor-
tion to the spire, which seems to proceed from the cen-
tre.
Valves, the different pieces which compose the shell.
Varix, Varices, longitudinal elevations or ribs, formed by
the junction of the different additions the shell has re-
ceived.
Ventricose, swollen.
Vermiform, having the form of worms.
Vertex, the top or point of a shell.
Umbilicated, having a hole in the base of the pillar.
Umbo, the summit.
Undulated, waved.
Whir', a spiral convolution.
INTRODUCTION.
CHAPTER I.
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.
J. HE division or branch of natural history on which this
work treats, is called Conchology; it comprehends the
study and history of testaceous animals, and not only in-
cludes those of the sea, but also those of rivers and of the
land.
Testaceous animals are such as have a calcareous co-
vering or habitation, in which the animal, otherwise na-
ked or fleshy, lives included and protected.
All animals inhabiting shells are exsanguinous, and des-
titute of bones; but they are endowed with a heart, lungs,
mouth, and other organs adapted to their nature.
It is perhaps necessary to prepare the young Conch o-
logist with the knowledge, that all shells, in their various
stages of growth, assume very different appearances; in
the younger, the shell is usually fragile, thin, and semi-
transparent, and generally unprovided with the ribs, tu-
bercles, ramifications, and denticulations, which are ma-
nifest in those of maturer growth; the adults, however, as
they advance in age, become thick and ponderous ; their
surface also becomes covered with callosities ; and they lose
that brilliancy of external colouring and marking which
had characterized their earlier state. But although these
u3
10 INTRODUCTION.
differences, in some instances, are sufficient to excite a
considerable degree of perplexity, yet there is always in
every shell a definite character, by which the Conchologist
will be able to distinguish its genus and species ; for each
genus or species is characterized by structure, substance,
marks, or colour, which the shells of that genus or species
almost invariably retain in all their stages of growth and
varieties of form, and consequently are thereby easily known
and distinguished.
PROPERTIES OF ANIMALS INHABITING SHELLS.
THESE animals possess the power of extending or ag-
grandizing their calcareous habitation or shell, and are
also enabled to repair whatever breaches their brittle dwell-
ings may have sustained by the turbulence of the ocean.
The operation of enlarging and repairing the shell is sup-
posed to be effected by a peculiar endowment of the ani-
mal, which can at pleasure discharge a viscous humour,
that soon becomes hardened or consolidated, and in time
acquires the consistence of the rest of the shell.
Many shells are covered with a cutaneous or skin-like
substance, called the epidermis, which serves to protect the
beautiful colors and markings which are frequently conceal-
ed beneath it.
CUSTOMARY USES TO WHICH SHELLS AND THEIR INHABITANTS
ARE CONVERTED.
THE principal benefit derived by man from shell-fish
appears to be in the way of food. Whole countries are
INTRODUCTION. 1 1
known to have no other sustenance, for weeks together,
but the produce of the sea ; and shell-fish fill no unim-
portant station in the immense catalogue of its inhabi-
tants.
The nutritive and delicious food afforded by oysters,
scallops, muscles, and cockles, is too well known to require
any remark.
In many countries which do not produce limestone, as
the coast of Brazil, &c., shells are collected in great quan-
tities, and, after calcination, form a most desirable substi-
tute for that useful substance : in this state they are also
considered excellent as manure.
The Indians frequently convert shells into domestic and
defensive implements; the South-sea islanders, for ex-
ample, head their javelins with them, and manufacture
them into fish hooks and various sorts of tools. Their
principal ornaments are often studded or embossed with
rows and groups of shells, artfully disposed, in regular or-
der, which are worn as marks of superiority, or as brace-
lets or armlets, and frequently form handsome appenda-
ges for the ears. A very extensive commerce is carried
on in Ceylon with the shank shell, (Murex rapa), which is
in great request for ornamental purposes.
The Chinese convert shells, that are opalescent when
uncoated, into various articles of domestic economy, such
as drinking cups, ewers, &c. ; and the Indian cabinets, so
much admired for their beauty and exquisite workmanhip,
are principally composed of iridescent shells, judiciously in-
laid and blended with tortoise-shell and other substances.
Some species of the oyster and muscle genera are ce-
lebrated for the production of pearls, the value and beauty
of which can perhaps be best estimated by those who are
in the habit of purchasing and wearing them.
There is one large species of Murex, called M. tritonis,
12 INTRODUCTION.
which, after having had the apex, or extreme tip, broken
off, becomes an excellent substitute for a trumpet or horn,
and is frequently used by the New Zealanders for that pur-
pose.
The famous Tyrian dye, so celebrated by the antients for
the luxuriant purple colour it imparted to the robes of roy-
alty, is an extract from a shell-fish of the genus Murex,
and commonly known under the appellation of the Pur-
pura or purple fish. An account of the method of using
it in marking linen, &c. is given by Mr. Ma we, in his
Travels though the Gold and Diamond Districts of Brazil,
2nd edit. p. 70.
ENEMIES TO SHELLS AND SHELL-FISH.
IT appears that shell-fish, besides affording food for man,
are destined to supply other creatures also with nourish-
ment. It is said that monkies are particularly fond of most
species of bivalves, and that the mode they take to catch
them is as follows : — At low water, the monkey repairs to
the shore, and searches for oysters and muscles left by the
tide ; the fish, for want of water, generally have their valves
partly open; the subtle animal, foreseeing the danger
of trusting his paws between the shells, artfully drops a
stone or two into them, which entirely prevents their be-
ing closed by the fish; by this expedient he is enabled to
extract his prey without danger or difficulty, and devour
it at his pleasure.
Tortoises and turtles consume numbers of shell-fish,
and the strength of their jaws (as reported) is so great,
that they can with facility masticate the strongest and
roughest shells.
Birds also, (sea-fowl especially), are great devourers of
INTRODUCTION. 13
shell-fish; and when they are unable to penetrate the
shells with their beaks, they ascend with them to a consi-
derable height, and let them fall on some rough or craggy
place ; by which means the shells are broken, and the fish
becomes an easy victim*.
Crabs, and other crustaceous animals, are known to
make serious attacks on the testaceous orders. The lar-
ger sort of crabs are able, by their great strength, to open
the valves of most shells by main force; but those of small-
er dimensions make their inroads in a different manner :
the pea-crab, in particular, is very destructive to bivalves,
especially to muscles; it enters their shells whenever it
has the opportunity of finding them open, and there re-
mains, preying upon the fish, till it has entirely consum-
ed it; at which period the shell opens, the crab takes his
departure, and proceeds to make similar attacks else-
where.
Another species, called the hermit crab, is also suppos-
ed to be implicated in similar offensive operations among
univalves;- for it is frequently found housed in the vacant
habitation of a buccinum, turbo, or nerite, and is there-
fore suspected of having previously devoured the animal,
and afterwards to have secured a retreat for itself in the
empty shell.
* Mr. Mawe states, in his Travels in Brazil, that he saw a spot
of bare granite, not more than one hundred yards square, cover-
ed with an immense number of mutilated shells; the whole
neighbourhood was rich in wood and verdure, and the sea at
least five miles distant. On inquiry he was informed, that large
flocks of birds every evening repaired to this place with shells
left by the tide, which they let fall on the rock, in order to ob-
tain their contents.
14 INTRODUCTION.
The serpulae, balani, chamae, and anomiae, often affix
themselves in clusters to the shells of other genera; and al-
though they destroy the beauty and symmetry of the shell,
they very rarely injure its inhabitant.
Shell-fish, though they in part constitute the food of
animals, birds, and fish, yet, in their turn, have some op-
portunity of retaliation, by partially destroying the float-
ing habitation of the universal despoiler, Man ; the Pho-
las arid Teredo navalis, in particular, frequently commit
such serious injury on ships, by boring into their planks,
as often to endanger the safety of the vessel, if not speed-
ily prevented in their operations.
DIRECTIONS FOR COLLECTING SHELLS, AND ARRANGING THEM
SYSTEMATICALLY.
WITH regard to collecting shells, it is necessary to hint
to those students, who, by a residence on the sea coast,
may have an opportunity of forming collections for them-
selves, that the best way is to select the shells which have
the animals alive in them ; for those that are found empty
on the beach are for the most part objectionable, the
shell becoming impaired by the co-operation of the sun
and waters, which also greatly tends to destroy the beauty
of the colouring and marking.
Besides, a double advantage is to be derived from hav-
ing the animals alive, for, by keeping them in sea water,
much useful information may be obtained by an accurate
observation of their structure and habits.
Storms frequently drive up live shells on the beach:
such should be collected as soon as possible, as they fre-
INTRODUCTION. 15
quelitly lose their delicate spines and foliations, by being
suffered to remain beating about on the shore.
As land and river shells are seldom so beautifully
formed, marked, or colored, as those of the ocean, they are
in consequence rarely so much prized; however, they
form an interesting part in all collections.
The collector should always keep the following objects
in view, whenever he commences the arrangement of his
shells : —
First. The order to which they belong, that is, whether
they are to be classed with the Multivalves, (i. e. shells of
many valevs) ; Bivalves, (shells of two valves) ; or Uni-
valves, (shells of one part of piece only) : which three grand
divisions constitute the leading distinctions of shells.
Secondly. He should be careful to place them in the
proper genus of the order to which they belong. — And,
Thirdly. He should avoid misplacing or confusing the
species which appertain to each genus. And if, in the course
of his studies, he should be fortunate enough to obtain any
hitherto undiscovered genus, species, or variety, he should
make such an accurate description and drawing, as would,
by submitting them to the opinion and judgment of the
scientific, confirm him in the correctness of his own con-
clusions, and tend to promote the general advancement of
conchological knowledge.
THE METHODS OF PRESERVING AND CLEANING SHELLS.
IF the shell contains the animal alive, it will be neces-
sary to immerse it in boiling water for a few minutes;
then plunge it into cold water, which will cause the ani-
16 INTRODUCTION.
mal to contract, and render it more easy to be extracted :
crooked pins, and other sharp instruments, are sometimes
required to effect a perfect extraction.
If a large quantity of shells is to be cleaned, dissolve
half a pound of potash, and half a pound of soft soap, in
two quarts of boiling water ; stir the solution until all the
particles are dissolved, and then pour it warm over the
shells; let them remain in this liquid two or three days,
frequently warming it, and pouring it over them. After
this process, wash them well with a brush in warm water ;
and, when dry, rub them with a nail brush, until they have
received a sufficient polish. This method may be adopted
with all smooth shells, such as olives, cowries, cones, &c.
Rugged shells generally require a different process from
the preceding, though it is advisable to try that method
first. But if they are covered with adhesions, or the epi-
dermis will not separate from the shell, it is also necessary
to use muriatic acid, after they have undergone the above-
mentioned process. When they are perfectly dry, the
acid is to be applied with a fine brush, dipped in sand, to
the parts which require it. After the adhesions, &c., are
removed, the shell must be immediately immersed in alkali,
to neutralize the effects of the acid, and then well washed
in warm water. As these shells are not susceptible of so
fine a polish as the smoother varieties, it is usual to give
them an artificial gloss, by brushing them over with a
weak solution of gum-arabic.
CORALS, which are so justly admired for their delicate
structure, elegant ramifications, and great beauty, may
be cleaned in a similar manner, by steeping them a few
days in the solution of potash and soft soap; after which
they should be carefully brushed in warm water.
INTRODUCTION. 17
It not unfrequently happens that corals are discolored
by some extraneous substance ; when this is the case, the
part discolored must be immersed in a weak solution of
muriatic acid, until the outer surface is removed, and then
dipped in alkali, to neutralize the effects of the acid. They
must afterwards be cleaned by repeated ablutions in warm
water.
18 INTRODUCTION.
CHAPTER II.
OF THE ANIMALS WHICH INHABIT SHELLS.
OF these animals a minute and accurate anatomical de-
scription is not to be expected; for little more is known of
their structure than what has been given by naturalists
concerning their external characters.
Some of the animals which inhabit shells are also found
in the mollusca state, that is, without any testaceous co-
vering. Such, for instance, is the Limax, or slug.
The animals which have been described as inhabiting
shells are the following; viz. Doris, Triton, Ascidia, Te-
thys, Limax, Spio, Amphitrite, Terebella, Nereis, Sepia,
and Clio.
Doris. — The body is creeping, oblong, and flat beneath ;
the mouth is placed below on the fore part; vent behind
on the back, and surrounded by a fringe. Feelers two or
four, situated on the upper part of the body in front, and
retractile within the proper receptacles. — The animal which
inhabits the Chiton belongs to this genus.
Triton. — The body is oblong, and the mouth is furnish-
ed with an involute spiral proboscis; tentacula or arms
twelve, six on each side, divided nearly to the base. The
hinder ones cheliferous. — The Triton inhabits different spe-
cies of Lepas.
Ascidia. — The body is fixed, roundish, and apparently
issuing from a sheath; apertures two, generally placed
near the upper end, one beneath the other. The animals
are found in the sea, and adhere by their base to rocks,
INTRODUCTION. 19
shells, and other submarine substances : they are more or
less gelatinous. The only powers of motion which they
possess seem to be that of contracting and dilating them-
selves alternately; by which means they are enabled
to eject, with considerable force, the water which they
imbibe. — This animal inhabits the Pholas, Solen, some
species of the Mya, Mactra, and other bivalves.
Tethys. — The body is detached, rather oblong, fleshy,
without peduncles : the mouth is furnished with a termi-
nal cylindrical proboscis, under an expanded membrane
or lip; apertures two, on the left side of the neck. — The
Tethys inhabits a great proportion of bivalve shells, as,
many species of Tellina, Cardium, Mactra, Venus, Ostrea,
and others.
Limax. — The body is oblong, creeping, with a fleshy
kind of shield above, and a longitudinal flat disc beneath :
aperture placed on the right side within the shield : feel-
ers four, situated above the mouth, with an eye at the
top of each of the larger ones. — The animals belonging to
this genus inhabit the turbinated univalve shells; but it
appears that all the animals which inhabit these shells do
not exactly correspond with the above generic characters.
Spio. — The body projecting from a tube, jointed and
furnished with dorsal fibres ; peduncles or feet rough with
bristles, and placed towards the back; feelers two, long,
simple ; eyes two, long. — This animal inhabits some spe-
cies of Sabella.
Amphitrite. — Body projecting from a tube, and annu-
late; peduncles or feet small, numerous, with lateral fas-
ciculi, and branchiae; feelers two, approximate, feather-
ed ; no 'eyes. — The Amphitrite inhabits some species of
Sabella and Serpula.
Terebella. — Body oblong, creeping, naked, furnished
with lateral fasciculi or tufts, andbranchias; mouth placed
20 INTRODUCTION.
before, furnished with lips, without teeth, and protruding
a clavated proboscis; feelers numerous, ciliated, capillary,
and placed round the mouth. — This animal is an inhabi-
tant of many species of Dentalium, Serpula, and Sabella.
Nereis. — Body long, creeping, with numerous lateral
peduncles or feet on each side; feelers simple, rarely none;
eyes two or four, rarely none. — According to some natu-
ralists, the Nereis inhabits some species of Sabella.
Clio. — Body oblong, natant, generally sheathed, and
furnished with two dilated membranaceous anns or wing-
like processes; tentacula three, besides two in the mouth.
According to some naturalists, the animal which inhabits
the Argonauta belongs to this genus.
INTRODUCTION. 2 1
CHAPTER III.
CLASSIFICATION OF SHELLS.
LINNAEUS ranks Testacea as the third order in his sixth
class of animals called Worms. He has made three prin-
cipal or grand divisions, viz. Multivalves, Bivalves, and
Univalves.
I. MULTIVALVES.
SHELLS WITH MANY VALVES.
1. CHITON: Valves placed in transverse plaits down the
back.
2. LEPAS: Valves unequal; body sessile, or on peduncles.
3. PHOLAS: Shell hivalve, with accessory valves at the
hinge.
II. BIVALVES.
SHELLS WITH TWO VALVES.
4. MYA : Hinge with generally a broad thick tooth, not
let into the opposite valve.
5. SOLEN: Shell open at each end; hinge with a single
or double subulate reflected tooth, not let into the
opposite valve.
6. TELLINA : Hinge with the lateral teeth of one valve
not let into the other.
22 INTRODUCTION.
7. CARDIUM : Hinge with remote penetrating lateral teeth.
8. MACTRA: Hinge with a complicated triangular mid-
dle tooth, and an adjoining hollow.
9. DONAX : Hinge with a generally remote lateral tooth,
not let into the opposite valve.
10. VENUS: Hinge with generally three approximate di-
varicate teeth.
11. SPONDYLUS: Hinge with two teeth, separated by a
small hollow.
12. CHAMA: Hinge in one shell, with two oblique obtuse
teeth.
13. ARCA: Hinge with numerous penetrating teeth.
14. OSTREA: Hinge without teeth, but an ovate hollow.
15. ANOMIA: Hinge without teeth, but generally a linear
depression on the rim, the beak of one valve curved
over the hinge.
16. MYTILUS: Hinge without teeth, with a subulate de-
pression, and generally fixed by a silky beard.
17. PINNA: Hinge without teeth, valves united at one
end, and open at the other.
III. UNIVALVES.
1. WITH A REGULAR SPIRE.
18. ARGONAUT A: Shell with one cell, spiral, involute.
19. NAUTILUS: Shell with many cells, with a siphon of
communication.
20. CONUS: Aperture effuse, longitudinal, without teeth.
21. CYPRJEA: Aperture effuse, lineal, longitudinal, toothed
on each side.
22. BULLA : Aperture a little contracted, and placed ob-
liquely; toothed on one side only.
INTRODUCTION. 23
23. VOLUTA : Aperture effuse, the pillar plaited.
24. BUCCINUM: Aperture with a small canal leaning to
the right.
25. STROMBUS. Aperture with a small canal leaning to the
left.
26. MUREX: Aperture with a small straight canal.
27. TROCHUS : Aperture contracted, and somewhat trian-
gular.
28. TURBO: Aperture contracted and orbicular. ,
29. HELIX : Aperture contracted, lunate on the inner side.
30. NERITA: Aperture contracted, and semiorbicular.
31. HALIOTIS: Shell ear-shaped, aperture dilated, with a
row of orifices along the surface.
2. WITHOUT A REGULAR SPIRE.
32. PATELLA: Shell conic, the aperture widened like a
basin.
33. DENTALIUM: Shell slender, subulate, open at both ends.
34. SERPULA : Shell tubular, mostly serpentine, adhering
to other bodies.
35. TEREDO: Shell thin, penetrating wood.
36. SABELLA: Shell composed of agglutinated grains of
sand, &c.
INTRODUCTION
TO
CONCHOLOGY
ORDER I.
MULTIVALVES.
CHITON.— COAT OF MAIL.
Animal inhabiting the shell — a Doris : Shell consisting of
several segments of valves disposed down the back.
A HE genus Chiton ranks first in the classification of Tes-
tacea, or shells; and no less than fifty-two species are
described, some of which are exceedingly beautiful and un-
common. It is almost impossible to confuse this genus
with any other of the shell tribe, for all its species and va-
rieties coincide so nearly in their general formation and at-
tributes, that the situation in which they ought to be placed
may at once be decided upon.
The most distinguishing character of the Chiton is that
of bearing a strong resemblance to a small vessel or boat,
high built at the stern, and turned upside down ; and this
2(3 MULTIVALVES. — CHITON.
peculiar form is constituted by the attachment of eight
moveable valves, which are connected by a cutaneous or
cartilaginous substance, capable of sufficient distention and
contraction, to admit of considerable action or play on the
part of the valves; so much so, that the animal can at plea-
sure convert its shell into the form of a ball, and thereby
assume the appearance of a little insect, well known as an
inhabitant of old and decayed wood.
The covering and colouring of the valves serve to create
distinction ; some being perfectly smooth, others nodulous,
or knobbed ; some beset with spines, prickles, or hairs ; and
others, again, are striated, dotted, and rayed, as the C. his-
pidus, C. squamosus, and C. marmoratus.
The colour of the exterior is frequently a dusky brown, of-
ten passing into different shades of olive-green : others par-
take of a reddish or pinkish tint ; whereas some specimens
are of an ochreous or yellowish-white complexion ; and
many have their valves adorned with elegant designs and
marblings (not unlike tattooing) in the liveliest colours ima-
ginable.
The interior also admits of much variation with regard
to colour; however, the most prevalent is that of a blueish-
white, often beautifully diversified with cloudings of yellow,
brown, light green, and pink.
The margin which confines the valves in their proper si-
tuations, differs materially in the various species : in some
instances, it is smooth and of a yellowish-brown colour; gen-
erally, however, it is beset with fine scales, of a green or
olive colour; frequently it is of a reddish tint, and in some
species it is dusky-brown, or even black.
The situation and formation of the valves throughout the
genus resemble the plates which constitute a suit of armour
or coat of mail ; and it is from this marked similarity that
the Chiton has derived its name.
MULTIVALVES. — CHITON. 27
The habitat, or place of residence, of these shells seems to
appertain, indiscriminately, to all parts of the globe. — Ame-
rica affords the most ; the coast of Chili has recently fur-
nished many very beautiful species which were previously
unknown; several are from the East Indies; Africa sup-
plies a few ; and the Northern seas contribute their portion
of the remainder.
The Chiton, like the limpet, is generally found adhering
to rocks and other substances, as shells, stones, madrepores,
corals, &c., and some of the northern species frequent the
roots of sea weed.
The following is a list of the different species, taken from
Gmelin's last edition of Linnseus's Sy sterna Naturae, with
the addition of those species which have been discovered
since the publication of that work. A similar list will fol-
low the general description of each genus. — The species
found on the British coasts are distinguished by an asterisk.
CHITON— Coat of Mail.
DIVISION I. — Having a scaly margin.
Squamosus — Scaly. Cumingsii — Cumings's.
Bistriatus— Striated. Olivaceus — Olive.
Fasciatus — Banded. G ranosus — Grained.
Viridis — Green. Glaucocinctus — Azure- banded.
Tessellatus — Tessellated. Granulosus — Brown-marbled.
Sulcatus — Furrowed. Peruvianus — Peruvian.
Maculatus — Spotted. Disjunctus — Disjoined.
Marmoratus — Marbled. Elegans — Elegant.
Indus — Indian. Lineolatus — Linear.
Coquimbensis — Coquimbo. Chilensis — Chili.
DIVISION II. — Having a coriaceous margin.
Fulvus — Tawny. Castaneus — Chesnut.
Tunicatus — Coated. Lineatus— Striped.
c2
28 MULTIVALVES. — LEPAS.
Aculeatus— Prickly. Cimex— Bug-like.
*Fascicularis— Banded. Asellus— Millipede.
Punctatus — Dotted. Gigas — Large.
Ruber — Red. Islandicus — Icelandic.
Albus — White. *Marginatus — Marginated.
Cinereus — Ash-coloured. *Laevis — Smooth.
Bicolor — Variegated. Amiculatus — Imbricated.
Cerasinus— Cherry-coloured. Tuberculatus — Knobbed.
Magellanicus— Magellan. *Crinitus— Hairy.
Fuscus — Brown. Thalassinus— Sea-green.
Granulatus — Granulated. Hispidus — Bristly.
Piceus — Pitchy. Porosus — Porous.
Minimus — Mealy. Larvseformis — Caterpillar.
DIVISION III. — Having a spinous margin.
Spinosus — Spiny. Spiniferus — Thorny.
LEPAS. — ACOUN SHELL, OR BARNACLE.
Animal — a Triton: Shell affixed at the base, and consisting
of many unequal, erect valves.
THE genus Lepas includes forty-four species, which, for
the most part, bear a strong resemblance to each other, at
least with regard to their general formation and outline.
The most prominent feature of these shells is their being
(with few exceptions) of a more or less conical shape, which
is acquired by a number of valves placed perpendicularly
on a base, broad at the lower margin, and gradually taper-
ing towards the summit, which is closed by smaller valves,
placed horizontally, and serving as a lid or covering to the
animal within.
The perpendicular valves are incapable of motion : the
horizontal, on the contrary, are moveable at the pleasure
MULTIVALVES. — LEPAS. 29
of the animal; which, through their medium, performs
those functions that are necessary to its existence.
The Lepas is never found independent or isolated, as
most other shells are ; on the contrary, all its species are
known to attach themselves' in clusters, by their base or
fleshy stalk, to other bodies, as rocks, coral reefs, and shells ;
even fish themselves are not exempt from their encroach-
ments ; the whale, for instance, is frequently found with
groups of Lepades adhering to various parts of its body.
They also affix themselves to ships, and, though at first in-
visible, so rapid is their increase in magnitude and num-
ber, that the velocity of a vessel is considerably impeded by
them. I once observed, on the coast of Africa, a piece of
wood, which had been placed as a buoy, in a few days be-
come covered with a gelatinous substance, and in less than
a fortnight was thickly beset with Lepades. Hence it would
appear, that the animal exists in the sea in the state of ani-
malcule.
The exterior of the shell is often varied in form, cover-
ing, and colouring; the usual outline is conical; in some,
it resembles a pyramid, and in a few is parabolical, or even
hemispherical ; the Lepas diadema partakes of the latter
form and bears some resemblance to a divided globe.
The number of valves which constitute the shell is very
indefinite ; their usual amount is six, but the Lepas palmi-
pes has sometimes only four; and other species possess
the intermediate gradations of number, as far as twenty-
four, which number is sometimes exceeded in the L. polli-
cipes. The valves are variously diversified with striae,
ridges, and grooves.
The ridges are mostly longitudinal ; the striae, on the con-
trary, are transverse, and not unfrequently beset with rough
projections and acute spines, as is the case in the Lepas
spinosa.
30 MULTIVALVES. — LEPAS.
The colour also differs considerably, though the most usual
is of a blueish, purplish, or reddish cast, intermixed with
a whitish hue. However, some are marked with black and
green alternately, and others are of a greyish-white, or
dirty yellow tint, as the L. mitella, &c.
The valves which compose the lid, or operculum, often
vary in number and shape ; some species have only two,
others three or four, and not unfrequently a much greater
number. They are usually attached to a ligament, and
sometimes present a pointed or acute form, while in other
species they are blunt or obtuse.
The interior of the shells of this genus is either filled up
with tubular pores, as in the L. porosa, or divided into
separate compartments or chambers, as in the L. quinque-
valvis.
Notwithstanding the great affinity that exists throughout
the Lepas tribe, there are a few exceptionable species, in
which a resemblance is difficult to be traced ; as, for ex-
ample, the L. aurita, L. anserifera, L. anatifera, and others
in the second division.
These species are closely allied to each other, but exceed-
ingly dissimilar to the rest of their genus ; for the generali-
ty of Lepades are affixed to other bodies or substances by
the base, or lower part of the shell, whereas these are at-
tached by a stalk, stem, or pedicle, which proceeds from
the base of the shell to the substance that sustains it.
The stem by which the shells are supported differs
much in quality and substance ; sometimes it appears as a
smooth, film-like tube, of a texture finer and thinner than
gold-beaters' skin, though somewhat lighter coloured, and
not unfrequently tinted with bright red or orange ; and oc-
casionally it is dark or blueish-brown, much coarser, wrink-
led, and granulated.
The L. anserifera and L. anatifera are almost invariably
composed of five valves; they are supplied with beau-
MULT1 VALVES. — LEPAS. 31
tiful feathery tentacula of a brown colour, and elegant-
ly curled. From this circumstance, probably, they were
supposed to be the origin of the barnacle or brent-geesej
and are therefore commonly known by the name of Goose-
shells or Duck-barnacles. The Lepas anserifera is some-
times found in a fossil state.
The Indian, American, Atlantic, and Arctic oceans,
alike provide a habitat for the species of this genus ; and
no less than thirteen of them are to be occasionally met
with on the British coasts.
The Lepas, in all probability, derives its name from its
custom of adhering to crags of rocks, and other projections
in the sea.
LEPAS — Acorn Shell or Barnacle.
DIVISION I. — AFFIXED AT THE BASE TO OTHER SUBSTANCES.
FAMILY I.-— Sessile.
*Balanus — Common Barnacle. Spinosa — Spinous.
*Balanoides — Small striated. Violacea — Violet.
Tintinnabulum — Bell-shaped. Crispata — Rugged.
*Scotica — Scottish. * Verruca — Wart-shaped.
*Costata — Ribbed. *Rugosa — Wrinkled.
*Conoides — Conic. *Punctatus — Punctured.
Palmipes — Palmated. Radiata — Rayed.
Minor — Flesh-coloured. CarSosa — Ridged.
Angustata — Narrow-mouthed. Psittacus — Parrot- leaked.
*Elongata — Club-like. Hemispherica — Hemispherical.
Patellaris — Limpet-like. Laevis — Smooth.
*Striatus — Striated.
FAMILY 2. — Having radiated cells at their base.
Diadema — Turban. Testudinaria — Turtle.
Balanaris — Whale. Quinquevalvis — Five-valved.
FAMILY 3. — Having a porous base.
Porosus — Porous. Purpurascens — Purple.
32 MULTIVALVES. — PHOLAS.
FAMILY 4. — Having a cup-like appendage at the base.
Galeata — Helmet-like. *Spongeosa — Spongy.
FAMILY 5. — Tubular and truncated at both ends.
Tracheaformis — Windpipe.
DIVISION II. — SHELLS ATTACHED TO A FLESHY PEDUNCLE.
FAMILY 1. — Having more than five valves, and a wreath of
smaller ones round the base.
Mitella— Mitred. Scalpellum— Knife- like.
Pollicipes — Cornucopia.
FAMILY 2. — Having only five contiguous valves.
Anserifera — Striated. Fascicularis — Bladder-like.
*Anatifera-— Duck Barnacle. Vellosa — Downy.
Dorsalis— Wrinkled. Dentata— Toothed.
*Sulcata — Furrowed.
FAMILY 3. — Having minute and distant valves placed on the
fleshy extension of the peduncle.
Aurita — Eared. Vittata — Ribband.
PHOLAS.— STONE-PIERCER.
Animal — an Ascidia : Shell having two primary valves, di-
varicate, with several smaller differently shaped acces-
sory valves at the hinge; hinges recurved, united by a
cartilage; in the inside, beneath the hinge, is an incurved
tooth.
IT appears that hitherto only twelve species of this ge-
nus have been enumerated, and some of those are so alike,
that in many instances they may be considered as mere va-
rieties, rather than different species; however, they all pos-
MULTIVALVES. — PHOLAS. 33
sess sufficient determinate characters to prevent any admix-
ture with the genera of Bivalves.
The form of the Pholas is in most species ovate or ob-
iong, which is constituted by two large valves, being situat-
ed opposite to each other, and to which is attached, in the
vicinity of the beaks, a number of smaller ones, serving as
substitutes for a hinge, which, in bivalves, or shells of two
opposite parts only, determines their generic character.
Another character of the Pholas is, that the valves, (i. e.
the two large ones), never shut close, they are invariably
open at one end, and, in most instances, at both.
In the interior of the shell, in each valve, nearly under
the beak, is an incurved tooth, sometimes of considerable
length, and which may certainly be considered as a pecu-
liarity of the genus.
The exterior of the Pholas is generally destitute of colour ;
sometimes it partakes of a brownish cast, but the shell is
usually of a pure or dusky-white : however, the absence of
colour is amply compensated for by the beautiful fret-work
with which the shells of this genus are adorned.
In some species the reticulations are so delicate in their
fabric, as to resemble the finest lace ; in others the texture
is coarser, and approaches nearer to small basket-work;
and in the Pholas costata the shell is covered with regular,
elevated, jagged, or scolloped ribs, so elegantly disposed,
as to render it no less desirable for its beauty than its scar-
city.
The Pholades are found in company, but not in groups
or clusters, as the Lepades are ; for each individual Pholas
is detached from its neighbour, and occupies a separate and
distinct habitation, which it forms for itself, by expressing
a corroding juice, in any substance which accident or intent
has made most eligible.
Stone, clay, wood, sponge, and coral, equally serve as ha-
c3
34 MULT1VALVES. — PHOLAS.
bitations for the Pholades ; even the stoutest oak planks of
ships' sides are pierced by them with the greatest facility.
As they advance in growth, they enlarge their habitation
within, leaving the small aperture, by which they originally
entered, of its primitive dimensions, thereby precluding all
possibility of a retreat.
The animal possesses the property of emitting a phos-
phorescent liquor, which shines with brilliancy in the dark,
and illuminates whatever it touches.
The American, Indian, and European seas supply the
few species that are known.
PHOLAS — Stone-piercer.
*Dacty!us Prickly-piercer. Cordata — Heart-shaped.
Costata — Ribbed. Chiloensis— Chili.
Striata — Striated. Hians — Gaping.
"Candida— White. *Parva— Small.
*Crispata— Curled. Falcata — Hooked.
Orientalis — Indian. *Papyracea — Paper.
35
ORDER II,
BIVALVES.
MYA. — TRUNCATE TROUGH-SHELL OR GAPEK.
Animal — an Ascidia: Shell bivalve, generally gaping at
one end; hinge with broad, thick, strong teeth, seldom
more than one, and not inserted into the opposite valve.
THIS genus has been placed by Linnaeus the first on
the list of Bivalves : its species are by no means numerous,
forty only having been described by him.
The principal characteristic of the Mya consists in its
gaping at one end : the next general distinguishing mark
is, its having a single, broad, patulous tooth, proceeding
from beneath the beak. This tooth differs from that of
the foregoing genus ; for, in the Pholas, it is long and slen-
der, and almost of equal size throughout; whereas, in the
Mya it is much wider and broader at one end than the
other; and the broadest end has an excavation, which gives
it the appearance of the bowl of a spoon or ladle.
However, this sort of tooth is not always discernible in
every species of the Mya, for some are entirely without it ;
others, again, have two or three teeth, and, in some in-
stances, small crenulations supply the place of a regular
hinge.
The form of the Mya varies exceedingly, some are ob-
36 BIVALVES. — MYA.
long and truncate, as if part of the shell had been chopped
off; others, again, are orbicular or round; and many are
angular and eared.
With regard to their general colouring, little can be said,
for the greatest part of them are covered with a thick
brown or green epidermis ; and when this is removed, no
other appearance than that of a livid or wan-coloured surface
is exhibited; except in those cases where the substance
composing the shell is of a pearly nature, then the removal
of the epidermis exposes the hidden beauties of the shell,
which, when polished, affords the most brilliant mother-of-
pearl imaginable. This pearly appearance is confined to
the fresh water species.
The M. margaritifera is famous for the production of the
finest pearls, and was formerly found in great quantities in
the river Conway, in Wales. The creation of pearls is
said to originate in a disease of the animal.
Some species of this genus grow to a large size, the M.
glycymeris, for instance, is often found from ten to twelve
inches broad. Others, again, as the M. crassa, &c. are re-
markable for their excessive weight and thickness; and
their weight often appears out of proportion to their di-
mensions. Rivers and cataracts afford heavy and thick
specimens.
In some places the Mya constitutes a considerable por-
tion of food, not only for man, but also for aquatic birds.
They have a propensity to burrow in the sand and mud,
and are wholly or partially concealed therein.
Some species of the Mya inhabit the East Indian seas ;
others are found on the coast of Africa; several are com-
mon in the European and Northern seas ; and some species
are to be found in the South seas ; they also occur in con-
siderable abundance in the neighbourhood of Sheerness and
Sandgate Creek.
BIVALVES. — MYA. 37
MYA— Gaper.
DIVISION I. — Hinge with one or two rounded teeth, not inserted
in the opposite valve.
Glycymeris — Great. Rostrata — Beaked.
*Truncata — Abrupt. *Distorta — Deformed.
* Arenaria — Sand. *Bidentata — Double- toothed.
*Declivis — Sloping. *Decussata — Decussated.
*Pubescens — Pubescent. *Purpurea — Purple.
*Preetensus— Spoon-hinge. *Ferruginosa — Rusty.
Anatina — Duck. . Nitens — Glossy.
Globosa — Globular. *Prismatica — Prismatic.
Nicobarica — Nicobar. *Substriata — Substriated.
DIVISION II. — Hinge callous, without teeth.
E dentula — Toothless. Norwegica — Norwegian.
Membranacea — Membraneous. Siliqua — Bean-pod.
DIVISION III. — Hinge with teeth inserted into the opposite valve.
* Batava — Dutch. Corrugata — Wrinkled.
*Pictorum — Painters'. Rugosa — Rough.
*Ovata — Oval. Variabilis — Variable.
Radiata — Radiated. Nodosa — Knobbed.
Ponderosa — Ponderous. Syrmatophora — Angular.
Complanata — Smooth. *Suborbicularis — Roundish.
Nodulosa — Knotted. *Inaequivalvis — Inequivalve.
*Margaritifera— Pearl. Labiata— Lipped.
Aurita — Eared.
DIVISION IV. — Hinge toothless, with a conical rounded hollow for
the reception of the cartilage.
Vulsella — Tweezers.
38 BIVALVES. — SOLEN.
SOLEN. — RAZOR-SHEATH OR KNIFE-HANDLE.
Animal — an Ascidia: Shell bivalve, oblong, open at both
ends; hinge with a subulate reflected tooth, often double,
and not inserted into the opposite valve.
THE number of species in this genus is thirty-five, and
in their general appearance they are exceedingly varied.
In some of the species, as in the S. siliqua, S. vagina,
&c. the breadth of the shell is in the proportion of about
seven to one of its length, thereby giving it a resemblance
to the handle of a knife, or sheath of a razor strop; some,
on the contrary, though possessing nearly the same pro-
portions, are curved or bent, like the scabbard of a scimi-
tar, as the S. ensis, &c. In others, the form approaches
nearer to some of the truncated species of the preceding
genus, being swollen or puffed up like a bladder. How-
ever, by observing both ends of the shell, which will be
invariably found open or gaping, there can be little danger
of mistaking the Solen for any other genus.
The next characteristic is derived from the hinge, which
is usually supplied with one subulate tooth, often found
double, though not always inserted in the opposite valve.
The genus Solen, for the most part, presents but little
beauty; there are, indeed, some few exceptions — such as
the S. radiatus, S. roseus, &c. these, from being rayed with
purple and white, or having a fine pink colour, may perhaps
claim admiration ; but whatever beauty they may possess,
they are infinitely surpassed by innumerable species in the
other genera of Bivalves.
Most of the species of Solen are found covered witli a
thin cuticle or epidermis, which, if not removed, renders
the colours beneath obscure, and, in some instances, undis-
coverable.
BIVALVES. — TELLINA. 39
The European and Northern Seas afford by far the great-
est proportion of the shells of this genus. They are, how-
ever, found in the Indian, American, and Mediterranean
seas. They often reside among zoophytes.
SOLEN— Razor- Sheath.
DIVISION L — Shell linear.
* Vagina — Sheath. Linearis — Slender.
Truncatus — Truncated. »Ensis— Scimitar.
*Novacula — Knife. *Pellucidus — Transparent.
*Siliqua — Long brown. *Legumen — Pease-cod.
Cultellus^-Kidney.
DIVISION II. — Shell ovate or oblong.
*Antiquatus — Antique. Striatus — Striated.
Gigas — Giant. Castrensis — Zigzag.
Magnus — Great. Biradiatus — Double-rayed.
Minimus — Small. Sanguinolentus — Blood-red.
Guineensis — Guinea. Oriens — Rising Sun.
Inflexus — Inflected. Occidens — Setting Sun.
Diphos — Violet. Amethystus — Amethyst.
Radial us — Rayed. Variegatus — Variegated.
Strigilatus — Strigilated. Bullatus — Inflated.
*Coarctatus — Narrow. *Minutus — Minute.
*Fragilis— Brittle. \irens-Green.
Anatinus — Duck's-bill. *Squamosus — Scaly.
Roseus — Rose-coloured. Vespertinus — Vesper.
TELLINA.— TELLEN,
Animal — a Teiliys: Shell bivalve, generally sloping on one
side; in the fore part of one valve there is a convex, and
in the other, a concave fold; hinge with usually three
teeth, the lateral one smooth in one valve. ,
AMONGST all the different genera of Bivalves, there is
none, except the Venus, which can vie with the Tellina in
40 BIVALVES. — TELLINA.
point of beauty, variety, or number, which amounts to no
less than eighty-one species: and whether the attention
be directed to their elegance of form, brilliancy of colour, or
delicacy of structure, the eye is equally astonished and de-
lighted.
The usual form of the Tellina resembles a long pear,
being broad at one end, and gradually tapering to the
other; in some cases so much so, that the pointed termi-
nation of the shell forms a perfect beak or proboscis, as
in the T. rostrata, T. virgata, &c. Others, on the contrary,
are more of an orbicular, or spherical form, as the T. sco-
binata, &c. and some again, as the T. radiata, &c. are
nearly allied to species of the Solen genus, with which
(from their near resemblance) they are sometimes con-
founded; however, from the general propensity of all Tel-
linae to terminate in a more or less acute beak, much in-
accuracy cannot well be committed. At the same time, the
hinge of the Tellina will remove any doubts that may have
originated from the simple observance of the exterior; for
it is usually furnished with three teeth, the middle one of-
ten cleft; the lateral teeth are most commonly smooth; the
interior margin rarely, if ever, crenulated.
The outside of the shells is surprisingly varied, some
being perfectly smooth and polished, whilst others are co-
vered with minute striae and undulations. In some in-
stances the whole surface is beset with coarse imbrications
or scales ; but the more elegant species of the Tellina are
chiefly remarkable for their beautiful radiations, the colours
of which are rarely to be equalled in any of the other ge-
nera.
As the Tellinae are most important among the Bivalves,
so the sources from whence they are derived usually
abound in the different varieties they afford. The Medi-
terranean, Adriatic, European and Northern Seas, and the
BIVALVES. — TELLINA. 41
American and Atlantic Oceans produce a great number.
The rivers, pools, ponds, and marshes of Europe and
America supply only a few. The finest varieties are
found in the pearl fisheries of Ceylon.
TELLINA.— Telkn.
DIVISION I. — Ovate and thickish.
Gargadia — Toothed. Inflata— Inflated.
R ugosa — Wrinkled. Polygona — Polygonal.
Lingua-fells — Cat's tongue. Lacunosa — Marshy.
Marginalis — Margined. Gibbosa — Gibbous.
Virgata— Tulip. Gari— Varying.
Interrupta — Freckled. *Ferroensis — Carnation.
Angulata — Angular. *Fragilis — Brittle.
Obliqua — Oblique.
DIVISION II. — Ovate and compressed.
Triangularis — Triangular. Coccinea — Scarlet.
Oblonga — Oblong. Incarnata — Flesh-colour' d.
Spengleri — Spengler's. Opalina — Opaline.
Foliacea — Golden. Lanceolata — Lance-shaped.
Acuta — Sharp-edged. Sanguinea — Sanguineous.
*Planata — Substriated. Nivea — Snowy.
Strigosa — Striped. Sulcata — Sulcated.
Lsevigata — Smooth. Donacina — Donax.
Madagascariensis— Madagascar. *Angusta — Narrow.
Radiata — Radiated. Truncata — Truncated.
Pallescens — Pale. *Punicea — Flat-striated.
Rostrata — Beaked. *Depressa — Depressed.
Rufescens — Reddish. *Fabula — Semi-striated.
Flavescens — Yellow. *Tenuis — Thin.
Hyalina — Glassy. Vitrea — Transparent.
*Inaequivalvis — Inequivalve. *Striata — Striated.
*Trifasciata — Three-banded. Balaustina — Pomegranate.
Calcarea — Chalky.
42 BIVALVES. — CARDIUM.
DIVISION III. — Sub- orbicular.
Remies — Waved. *Zonata — Banded.
*Fausta — Obsolete. Bimaculata — Double spot.
*Reticulata — Reticulated. Balthica — Baltic.
Cancellata — Cancellated. Pisiformis — Pea-shaped.
*Guinaica — Guinea. Divaricata — Obliquely-striated.
Scabra — Rough. Dentata — Toothed.
* Crassa — Thick. Digi taria — Digital.
Decussata — Decussated. *Cornea — Horn-coloured.
Cordiformis — Heart-shaped. * Lacustris — Lake.
Muricata — Prickly. *Amnica — River.
Scobinata — Rasp. Pusilla — Minute.
*Lactea — Milky. Limosa — Maton's.
* Rotundata— Round. Fluminalis — Euphrates.
*Flexuosa — Flexuous. Hermaphrodita — Olive.
*Carnaria — Rosy. Fluminea — Ribbed.
Fluviatilis — Chinese.
CARDIUM. — COCKLE OR HEART-SHELL.
Animal — a Tethys : Shell bivalve, nearly equilateral, eqid-
valve, generally convex, longitudinally ribbed, striated, or
grooved, with a toothed margin ; hinge with two teeth near
the beak, and a larger remote lateral om on each side,
each locking into the opposite.
THIS genus, though not so numerous as the last, pre-
sents great variety of structure and colouring. There are
forty-seven species.
The valves of the Cardium are for the most part of a con-
vex, swollen, or gibbous construction, and often spherical j
yet, in some instances, their form is elongated and com-
pressed. In other species the contour exhibits the figure
of a perfect heart, as in the C. cardissa, &c.
The shells are usually equivalve, and have their outsides
BIVALVES. — CARDIUM. 43
adorned with longitudinal ridges and grooves, crossed by
transverse striae, similar to the common cockle, only much
more articulate. In others, again, the ridges are beset
with rows of acute spines, as in the C. aculeatum and C.
echinatum; but the exteriors of some have a perfectly
smooth and polished surface, as the egg-cockle, &c.
The C. fragum and C. unedo exhibit a peculiar formation,
being sub-angular, and only heart-shaped when seen in a
particular position. A similar coincidence is observable in
the C. retusum, though, in other respects, it differs; for the
C. fragum and C. unedo have their ridges covered with
crowded pink or yellow elevated lunules or crescents, but
the C. retusum has nodules rather than imbricated scales.
The interior margin of this genus is almost universally
crenate or toothed.
The hinge is furnished with two teeth, and a larger re-
mote lateral tooth on each side of it, each locking into its
opposite.
The C. edule, or common cockle, is found in great abun-
dance beneath the surface on sandy coasts ; the fish affords
a wholesome and nourishing food.
The most rare and valuable species of the genus Cardium
is the C. costatum or pipe-ridged cockle, which has rows
of white hollow elevated ribs, situated at regular distances
on its surface, and proceeding in a longitudinal direction
from the beaks to the margin ; the interstices, or spaces be-
tween these ribs, are (in perfect specimens) of a fine dark-
brown colour, which gives the shell a great boldness of
character.
A great part of this genus inhabits the European and
Northern seas; many are collected from the American,
African, and Indian oceans; the Mediterranean, likewise,
produces some of the species ; and the mouths of rivers, as
the Tees, Thames, &c. also supply specimens, though
rarely.
44 BIVALVES. — CARDIUM.
CARD1UM— Cockle or Heart-shell.
DIVISION I. — HEART-SHAPED, VALVES COMPRESSED, UM-
BONES ALTERNATING.
Cardissa — Venus' s heart. Roseum — Smooth edged.
Hutnanum — Concave. Monstrosum — Recurved.
DIVISION II. SUB-CORDATE, LONGITUDINALLY RIBBED.
FAMILY 1. — Having a crescent shaped cavity beneath the
umbones.
Retusum — Diana* 's.
FAMILY 2. — Ribs armed with nodules, elevated rough strife,
wrinkles, or scales.
•Edule — Common. Regulare — Regular.
Unedo — Strawberry. Glaucum — Glaucous.
Fragum — White strawberry. *Fasciatum — Banded.
Hemicardium — Heart-shaped. *Elongatum — Lengthened.
Tuberculatum — Tuberculated. Leucostomum— White-mouth 'd.
Isocardia — Rasp. Magnum — Yellow ribbed.
Pecdniforme — Pecten. Rigidum — Rigid.
Maculatum — Spotted.
FAMILY 3. — With ribs armed, more or less spined.
Flavum — Yellow. Rugatum — Gaper.
Spinosum — Spined. Latum — Broad.
*Echinatum — Rake. Ciliatum — Ciliated.
Lima — Asiatic. *Aculeatum — Spinous.
Muricatum — Prickly. *Muricatulum — Minute.
FAMILY 4. — With ribs unarmed.
Costatum — Pipe-ridged. Oblongum — Oblong.
•Medium — Marbled. Papyraceum — Paper.
Donaciforme — Triangular. Fimbriatum — Furbelowed.
*Exiguum — Pigmy. Rusticum — Banded.
Ringens — Toothed. Islandicum — Iceland.
*Parvum — Diminutive.
BIVALVES. — MACTRA. 45
DIVISION III. SUBCORDATE, OBSOLETELY RIBBED, STRIAT-
ED OR SMOOTH.
FAMILY 1. — Obsoletely ribbed.
•Laevigatum — Smooth.
FAMILY 2. — Lightly striated, approaching smooth.
Lineatum — Streaked. Grcenlandicum — Greenland.
Serratum — Egg-cockle. JEollcum — Janus.
*Rubrum — Red.
MACTRA. — KNEADING-TROUGH.
Animal — a Tethys: Shell bivalve, unequal sided, equivalve ;
middle tooth of the hinge complicated, with a small hol-
low on each side; lateral ones remote, and inserted into
each other.
THE genus Mactra has little to boast of, either in re-
gard to beauty or variety. The number of species amounts
only to forty-two, and in those no great difference of
colouring or form is observable.
The Mactra is usually of a triangular form ; but, in some
instances, it is rather oblong.
The surface of the exterior is generally smooth, or mi-
nutely striated ; some exceptions, however, may be found,
as the M. plicataria, and others, which exhibit a wrinkled
or ribbed appearance, similar to that observed in the differ-
ent species of the Cardium, but in a reverse direction ; the
latter being ridged or plaited longitudinally,- while, in the
Mactra, the elevations and their adjacent grooves are plac^
ed transversely.
The generality of Mactrae are of a delicate construction,
46 BIVALVES. — MACTRA.
and have a seraipellucid appearance. They are, for the
most part, thin, brittle, and remarkably light.
The most prevailing colour is blueish or yellowish-white,
but some have, upon a brown ground, delicate rays of pur-
ple, heightened with rich tints of the same colour : others,
again, are of a brilliant lilac, passing into a delicate blue.
The hinge of the Mactra is its best distinction from all
the other genera of Bivalves, for the middle tooth is almost
invariably complicated, and of a triangular form, hav-
ing a small hollow on each side ; the lateral teeth are re-
mote from the beaks and inserted into each other. The
hinge, though very articulate, is remarkably thin and deli-
cate ; in some cases, the teeth which compose it are much
thinner than paper.
The Mactrae are mostly equivalves ; in a few specimens
the valves gape at both ends, and in others at the anterior
only; the interior margin is rarely crenated or toothed.
The Northern and European seas supply many of the
species of Mactrae. The Indian and American oceans, the
Mediterranean, the shores of Africa and the Cape of Good
Hope also produce them. They are also frequently found
at the mouths of rivers.
MA.CTRA— Kneading-trough.
DIVISION I. — SHELL, SUBANGULAR.
FAMILY 1. — Having a smooth surface.
Spengleri — Spengler's. *Stultorum — Simpletons'.
Carinata — Keeled. Grandis — Great.
Maculata — Spotted. Achatina — Agate.
Corallina — Banded. *Triangularis — Triangular.
Lactea — Milky. Minutissima — Minute.
*Cinerea — Ashy. Donaciformis — Donax.
BIVALVES. — DONAX. 47
FAMILY 2. — Having a striated or wrinkled surface.
Striatula — Substriated. Nitida — Delicate.
Plicataria — Plaited. Striata — Striated.
Papyracea — Paper. *Radiata — Rayed.
Vitrea — Brittle. *Solida — Strong.
Cygnea — Swan. Solidissima — Thick.
Turgida — Inflated. *Truncata — Truncated.
Violacea — Violet. *Subtruncata — Abrupt.
Cuneata— - Wedge-shaped. Australia — Southern.
Rotundata — Roundish. Piperata — Pepper.
Glabrata — Smooth. *Tenuis — Thin.
*Boysii — Boys'.
DIVISION II. — SHELL OVATE, OBLONG.
FAMILY 1.— Closed at both ends.
*Glauca — Red-rayed. Rugosa — Rugged.
Egyptiaca — Egyptian.
FAMILY 2. — Gaping at the anterior end.
Pellucida — Pellucid. *Fragilis— Brittle.
*Listeri— Lister's.
FAMILY 3. — Gaping at both ends.
* Pianata — Flattened. *Lutraria — Muddy.
*Hians — Gaping.
DONAX. — WEDGE-SHELL.
Animal — a Tethys: Shell bivalve, with generally a crenit-
late margin, the frontal margin is very obtuse; hinge with
two teeth, and a single marginal one placed a little be-
hind, rarely double or triple.
THE most leading characteristic of the Donax is deriv-
ed from its form, which (throughout the twenty-four-species)
is similar to that of a wedge, being very broad and thick at
one extremity, and gradually narrowing and lessening to
48 BIVALVES. — DONAX.
the other. The frontal margin is generally very obtuse, and
the anterior slope is not unfrequently furnished with a sort
of fissure or gape ; near to which is situated a cartilaginous
ligature or ligament, which prevents the two shells from
separating when the animal has occasion to open them.
Some of this genus, however, are a little ambiguous in
their external appearance ; so much so, that they frequent-
ly create a doubt whether they should not be ranked among
the species of the Venus; but in these cases the hinge alone
must be the guide, which in the Donax is furnished with
two teeth, and a single marginal one placed a little behind,
not often double or triple.
The exterior of the Donax is generally of a smoothish
surface, though many are covered with nearly obsolete lon-
gitudinal striae, being embellished at the same time with
numerous reddish or purple rays, diverging from the beaks
to the margin. Other species are perfectly rough on their
outside, which is caused by crowded striae crossing each other
in a longitudinal and transverse direction ; this disposition
of the striae gives the shell a foliated and even a spiny ap-
pearance, as in the D. scortum and D. pubescens.
A very prevalent colour in this genus is a fine rich pur-
ple or purple rays on a white ground ; many of the species,
however, are of an olive-yellow cast, which not unfrequent-
ly inclines to a bright orange; others, again, have a pink
hue, and are finely lettered with brown zigzag markings,
as the D scripta, &c. and in some instances the shells have
a banded appearance. The interior almost always par-
takes of the colouring of the exterior; and the margin, which
is generally of a high colour, is almost invariably crenulat-
ed or beset with small contiguous teeth.
The species and varieties of this genus are but few, and
thinly scattered over most parts of the globe ; yet some
coasts (the European in particular) supply a profusion, but
BIVALVES. — VENUS. 49
of no great variety; they are usually found buried in the
sand. It is not exactly ascertained whether any of this
genus are natives of rivers.
The Donax derives its name from its shape, which re-
sembles the barbed head of a javelin or dart.
DONAX— Wedge-shell.
DIVISION I. — With decussated and muricated stria.
Scortum — Beaked. Muricata — Prickly.
Pubescens — Spiny. Spinosa — Spinous.
DIVISION II. — Longitudinally striated.
Rugosa — Wrinkled. Striata — Striated.
Serra — Crenated. Denticulata — Toothed.
*Trunculus — Common. Incarnata — Flesh-coloured,
E longa ta — Elongated.
DIVISION III. — Transversely striated.
Plebeia — Horn-coloured. Candida — White.
*Castanea — Chesnut. Radiata — Radiated.
Faba — Bean-shaped. Cuneata — Wedge.
Straminea — Straw-coloured. Madagascariensis-Madagascar.
DIVISION IV. — Smooth.
Complanata — Single-rayed. Scripta — Lettered.
Laevigata — Smooth. Stultorum — Foolish.
DIVISION V. — Shell with transverse membranaceous ridges.
*Irus — J
VENUS.— VENUS.
Animal — aTethys: Shell bivalve, the frontal margin flat-
tened, with incumbent lips; hinge ibith three teeth, all of
them approximate, the lateral ones divergent at the tip.
IT has already been observed, that this genus, with re-
gard to beauty, bears a decided pre-eminence over all the
D
50 BIVALVES. — VENUS.
other genera of Bivalves: and it is in all probability from
this very circumstance that it has obtained the title it bears.
It contains no less than one hundred and fifteen spe-
cies; and among these the variety in formation and colour-
ing is almost infinite : many of its species have the frontal
margins of their shells somewhat flattened, and not unfre-
quently with the lips incumbent. The elongated, com-
pressed, angular, and orbicular forms, find a place in this
genus, as may be observed on inspecting the four follow-
ing species: viz. V. literata, V. compressa, and V. tigrina.
In some, the form is very much inflated, gibbous, or swol-
len, as in the V. verrucosa, V. fimbriata, and V. reticu-
lata.
Many of this genus are remarkable for their smoothness,
and the brilliant lustre of their surfaces, such as the V.
Erycina, V. maculata, V. Chione, &c. these at the same
time are distinguished for their high and rich colouring.
Others, again, have less of colour and polish, but more of
carved word or reticulations, as the V. Paphia, V. reticu-
lata, &c. and one species is even spinous, viz. V. Dione.
In many specimens the exterior surface is covered with
longitudinal or transverse stria?, sometimes with both, which
not unfrequently terminate in foliations near the margins.
The interior of the shells of this genus is often adorned
with rich colouring, as in the V. mercenaria or wampum
clam, which in fine specimens is of a rich purple. The
North American Indians make their wampum or money
of the shells of this species. The same shell, in a fossil
state, is often found in the Swedish mountains.
The hinge of the Venus, with scarcely any exception, con-
tains three teeth, all approximate or close to each other ;
besides these three, there is a lateral tooth, not unfrequent-
ly divergent at the tip. The inner margin of the shell is
sometimes crenulated.
BIVALVES. — VENUS. 51
Almost all parts of the world supply specimens of this
genus. The American, African, Eastern, and Western
Oceans abound with them. The Mediterranean, Caspian,
and Southern Seas likewise produce various species ; as al-
so do the European and more northern oceans.
VENUS— Venus.
DIVISION I. — WITH THE ANTERIOR DEPRESSION SPINOUS.
Dione — Prickly mouthed. Marica — American.
DIVISION II. SUBCORDATE.
Paphia — Paphian.
*Fasciata— Banded.
Succincta — Grooved.
*Cingenda— GzVdferf.
Dysera — Ribbed.
Tiara — Turban.
Plicata— Plaited.
*E xcavata — Excavated.
* Spinifera — Spiny.
* Verrucosa — Warty.
Rigida — Rigid.
* C asina — Broad- ribbed.
Cancellata — Channeled.
Subcordata — Subcordate.
*Minima — Red streaked.
*S ulcata — Furrowed.
*Montagui — Montague's
*Scotica — Scottish.
*Danmonia — Devonshire.
Reflexa — Reflected.
*Gallina — Hen.
*Circinata — Compass.
Caliste — Dirty white.
C ompressa — Compressed.
Exalbida— Whitish.
Petulca — Clouded.
*Granulata — Grained.
*Ovata— Oval.
Paupercula — Despised.
Flexuosa — Flexuous.
Mactroides — Maclra.
Tripla — Triple.
•Triangularis — Triangular.
Malabarica — Malabar.
Flammea — Brown- band.
E rycina — Polished.
Costata — Ribbed.
Pacifica — South-sea.
* M er cenari a — Money.
*Islandica — Icelandic.
Coaxans — Ceylon.
Lusoria — Sportive.
*Chione — Smooth brown.
Maculata — Spotted.
Casta — Chaste.
Meretrix — Lipped.
Paradoxa — Doubtful.
JLseta — Globose.
Pinguis — Sleek.
Triradiata — Three-rayed.
52 BIVALVES. — VENUS.
Nebulosa — Clouded. Callipyga — Arabian.
Exilis — Abandoned. *Deflorata — Purple-streaked.
Recens — Recent. Fimbriata — Fringed.
Japonica — Japanese. Reticulata — Netted.
Striata — Striated. Puerpera — Spotted.
Castrensis — Camp. Crenulata — Crenulated.
Pectunculus— Painted. Radiata — Rayed.
Lorenziana — Lorenzo. Cincta — Girdled.
Ornata — Adorned. Squamosa — Scaly.
Phryne — Phryne. Lapicida — Rock.
Meroe — Meroe. Divergens — Ziczac.
Plumbea — Leaden.
DIVISION III. SUBORBICULAR.
*Tigrina — Tiger. Tumidula — Gibbous.
Sinensis — Chinese. *Borealis — Northern.
Prostrata — Compressed. Aculeata — Acute-ribbed.
Punctata — Punctured. Pectinata — Pectinated.
Excisa — Defaced. Discors — Toothed.
*Exoleta — Antiquated. Dispar — Unequal.
Concentrica — Concentric. Equivoca — Equivocal.
3 u venis — Young. Divaricata — Divaricated.
Histrio — Party coloured. Contraria — Contrary.
*Undata — Waved. Corrugata — Corrugated.
Scripta — Written.
DIVISION IV. — SHELLS INFLECTED, WITH A LONGITUDINAL
FURROW ON THE ANTERIOR END.
Pensylvanica — Pensylvanian. Jamaicensis — Jamaica.
Edentula — Toothless. *Spuria— Spurious.
Globosa — Globose.
DIVISION V. — SHELLS SUBOVAL, AND SLIGHTLY ANGULATED
ON THE ANTERIOR SIDE.
FAMILY 1; — Smooth or striated.
Gigantea — Gigantic. Geographica— Geographic.
Literata — Lettered. Rotundata — Rounded.
BIVALVES. — SPONDYLUS. 53
Undulata — Undulated. *Perforans — Piercing.
Obsoleta— Obsolete. Virginea — Virgin.
*Decussata — Intersected. *Aurea— Golden.
Senegalensis — Senegal. *Palustris — Marshy.
Monstrosa — Distorted.
FAMILY 2. — Foliated.
Agaracoides — Mushroom.
SPONDYLUS.— THORNY OYSTER.
Animal — a Tethys: Shell bivalve, solid, withunequalvalves:
one of the valves convex, the other rather fiat; hinge iviih
two recurved teeth separated by a small hollow.
THIS genus, though containing innumerable varieties,
is divided into no more than ten species, and even these,
from their extreme irregularity of formation and great simi-
larity of appearance, may often be confounded with each
other. However, the most striking character of the Spon-
dylus is, that its valves, which resemble those of the com-
mon oyster, viz. one convex, the other rather flat, have
their outsides covered with longitudinal rows of erect spines
or ramifications. The spines are usually tubular, ending
in a point; the ramifications or branchings, on the con-
trary, are flat, jagged, and patulous at their extreme ter-
minations.
The spined Spondyli, as the S. Gaedaropus, &c. are
mostly of one colour, as orange-red, purple, white, brown,
or yellow; which colours, in fine specimens, are exceeding-
ly brilliant
Those which have branches or plaits, (as the S. plicatus
&c.) have, on the contrary, a ground colour of either of the
54 BIVALVES. — SPONDYLUS.
above-mentioned tints, and the ramifications are left en-
tirely white.
In some instances there is a compound of colouring, as
white and brown, purple and white, &c. which gives the
shell a pied or brindled appearance ; and in others (especi-
ally those which have a tendency to being foliated as well
as branched) the upper valve is of one colour, as purple or
brown, while the lower valve is perfectly white.
The valves of the Spondyli are generally unequal, the
lower one protruding much beyond the other, and often
terminating in a curved and lengthened beak.
The hinge is furnished with two recurved teeth, which
are very strong and articulate, and separated by a small
but deep hollow; the inner margin is mostly crenulate; and
highly coloured with orange or purple. Some of this genus,
like the escallops, are surmounted with ears on each side of
the beaks; others, on the contrary, are perfectly earless.
They are generally found adhering to rocks, corals, &c.
in groups more or less numerous, often forming large mass-
es, and sometimes attached to shells. They are to be
met with in the American, Indian, Mediterranean, and
other seas.
SPONDYLUS— Thorny Oyster.
DIVISION I. — SHELL ARMED WITH SPINES OR RAMIFICATIONS.
FAMILY 1. — Sharp spines.
Gaedaropus — Thorny red. Aurantius — Orange.
Regius — Royal. Citrinus — Yellow.
Histrix — Hedge-hog.
FAMILY 2 Having palmated or foliated ramifications.
Palmatus — Palmated. Spathuliferus — Pied.
Ducalis — Ducal.
BIVALVES. — CHAMA. 55
DIVISION II. — SHELL UNARMED.
FAMILY 1. — Upper valve longitudinally striated.
Anacanthus — Spineless.
FAMILY 2. — Valves longitudinally plaited.
Plicatus — Plaited.
CHAMA. — CLAMP, CLAM, OR GAPER.
Animal — a Tethys: Shell bivalve, rather coarse; hinge with
a callous gibbosity, obliquely inserted in an oblique hol-
low; anterior slope closed.
THIS genus is by no means numerous, containing only
twenty-seven species, which, for the most part, are rough
and uncouth looking shells. The C. cor is, however, an ex-
ception, it being usually smooth: from its beauty and pe-
culiarity of structure, it is signalized from every shell in the
numerous catalogue of Bivalves. This species, which va-
ries in size from two to five inches in diameter, bears a
strong resemblance to a heart; its top being surmounted
by beaks which wind round towards the hinge in the most
graceful curvature possible.
The genus Chama affords a subject for amazement ra-
ther than admiration, for some of its species grow to an un-
common size: the C. gigas, for instance, (or Giant clam),
is a specimen of the unusual magnitude to which shells of
this genus attain; the valves sometimes exceeding four
feet in breadth, and of the enormous weight of five hun-
dred pounds ; but so disproportionate are its varieties, that
some have been found measuring only half an inch. This
species is generally more or lesss ribbed and foliated,
56 BIVALVES. — CHAMA.
and sometimes imbricated or scaly; the usual colour is a
dirty white, but the rarest varieties are those which have a
fine red-pink, or yellow tinge. Some of them, when per-
fect, are highly prized. The cartilage of the hinge has a
dull brown colour, but, when polished and cut in ovoid, its
iridescence is so brilliant that it rivals the opal in beauty,
and has even been sold for it. The C. hippopus also de-
serves to be noticed; like the C. gigas it varies consider-
ably in size, and is frequently found a foot long, while
some specimens do not exceed an inch; it is usually of a
yellowish colour, with pink spots and murications.
A grand mark of distinction in this genus is, that the
posterior slope is usually open or gaping, and the anterior
closed, not unfrequently having its margin crenulate. The
valves are mostly inequilateral, one protruding beyond the
other, and often appearing as if deformed. The hinge
has generally a callous gibbosity, inserted into an oblique
hollow.
The C. concamerata is remarkable for having, in the in-
terior of each valve, an ovate chamber, which gives the
shell an appearance of being double.
The more beautiful species of this genus are richly foli-
ated or spined, — as the C. lazarus, C. gryphoides, and C.
arcinella; the varieties of which are sometimes worthy of
admiration.
It seems a principle with the Chamae, (like the Spondyli),
to affix themselves to any extraneous substance which ac-
cident may throw in their way. They often adhere to
rocks, stones, and various shells; but, in many instances,
they seem to have a preference for some particular genus
of shells; for the C. arcinella is most commonly found af-
fixed to that species of Murex called the Thorny Woodcock;
however, it retains a partiality for others of the Murices,
especially those often known under the name of Triplices.
BIVALVES. — CHAMA. 57
The American, Indian, and Atlantic Oceans ; and the
Mediterranean, Caspian, and Adriatic Seas, produce infi-
nite varieties of this genus.
CHAMA— Clam.
DIVISION I. — SHELL EQUIVALVE.
FAMILY 1. — With longitudinal ribs, gaping at the posterior slope.
Gigas — Giant. Hippopus — Spotted.
FAMILY 2.— With longitudinal ribs, posterior slope closed.
Antiquata — Antiquated. Calyculata — Variegated.
Ajar — Ajar. Pectunculus — Peduncle.
Trapezia — Trapeziform, Satiata — Obsolete.
Rosea — Rose-coloured. Rugosa — Rugged.
FAMILY 3. — Shell longitudinally ribbed, having an ovate
chamber in the interior of each valve.
Concamerata — Chambered.
FAMILY 4. — Shell decussated, or transversely striated, without
ribs.
Semiorbiculata — Brown. Oblonga — Oblong.
Cordata — Heart-shaped. Coralliophaga — Coral.
FAMILY 5. — Shell tuberculated.
Plumbea — Leaden.
FAMILY 6. — Heart-shaped, umbones prominent, and apices
spirally recurved.
*Cor — Heart. Moltkiana — Moltkian's.
DIVISION II. — SHELL INEQUIVALVE.
Lazarus — Lazarus. Lamellosa — Lamellar.
Gryphoides — Gryphus. Punctata — Dotted.
Cornuta— Horned. Sinistrorsa — Reversed.
Sessilis— Scaly. Arcinella— Hedge-Hog.
Ponderosa — Heavy.
D3
58 BIVALVES. — ARCA.
ARCA.-— ARK.
Animal — a Tethys? Shell bivalve, equivalve; hinge with
numerous sharp teeth, alternately inserted between each
other.
THE Area, of which there are forty-five species, are
readily distinguished from other bivalves, by the peculiari-
ty of the hinge ; which, without exception, is composed of
numerous sharp teeth, alternately inserted between each
other. The line of direction of the hinge admits of two
variations: in some species, as the A. Noae, A. barbata,
&c. it is perfectly straight; in others, as the A. pectuncu-
lus, A. pilosa, &c. it is arched or curved. — However, in all
the species, the same description of hinge exists, though in
some it may be differently situated.
The forms of the Arks vary exceedingly; some are elong-
ated, as the A. tortuosa, A. Noa?, and A. barbata: in the
A. barbata or bearded Ark, the greater part of the surface
of the shell is concealed by a thick bristly or hairy covering.
The subcordate form is exemplified in the A. senilis, A.
granosa, &c. which are, besides, somewhat gibbous, and
have usually smooth or muricated grooves.
The third form is the suborbicular, of which the A. gly-
cymeris and A. pilosa are sufficient examples; they are for
the most part smooth on the outside, except where the
longitudinal striae are placed: these striae are frequently
more articulate in the interior than on the exterior, and of-
ten terminate, at the inner margin, in "elevated teeth. The
shells of this genus are covered with a brownish or green-
ish black epidermis.
There are many Arks which gape at the outer margin ;
others, on the contrary, are perfectly close. Some have
BIVALVES. — ARCA. 59
the margin entire; others, again, are crenulated 5 and se-
veral have prominent angular slopes, which give the shell
an auriculated appearance ; the anterior slope is, however,
by far the most prominent of the two.
This genus presents but little beauty, though some of its
species are considered rare.
The Ark is found in the European, Indian, American,
and Atlantic oceans: the Baltic, Northern, and Red seas
also produce some species.
ARCA— Ark.
DIVISION I. — WITH THE TEETH OF THE HINOE IN A STRAIGHT
LINE.
FAMILY 1 — Shell twisted.
Tortuosa — Twitted.
FAMILY 2. — Shell rhomboidal.
• Nose— Noah's. Candida— White.
*Imbricata — Imbricated. Indica— Indian.
Navicularis — Boat. *Lactea — Milky.
Plicata— Plaited. Reticulata— Reticulattd.
FAMILY 3. — Shell oblong or transversely ovate.
Magellanica— Magellanic. Bicolorata — Party-coloured.
Lacerata — Hairy. Modiolus — Muscle.
Fusca — Brown. Corbula— Basket.
Senegalensis — Senegal.
FAMILY 4. — Shell subcordate.
Lavigata— Smooth. Granosa— Grained.
Pella— Brittle. Rhombea — Rhomboid.
Antiquata— Antiquated. Senilis— Rugose.
FAMILY 5. — Gaping.
Complanata— Compressed. Nivea— White.
»Barbata— Bearded. Cancellata — Cancellated.
60 BIVALVES. — OSTREA.
FAMILY 6. — With an ear-shaped appendage in the interior of
each valve.
Concamerata — Chambered.
DIVISION II. — WITH THE TEETH OF THE HINGE IN A
CURVED LINE.
FAMILY 1. — Subcordate.
Campechensis — Campeachy. ^Equilatera — ^Equilateral.
A ngulosa — Angular.
FAMILY 2. — Suborbicular, margins crenated or plaited.
Pectunculus — Spotted. *Glycymeris — Orbicular.
Pectinata — Comb. *Pilosa — Downy.
Decussata — Decussated. Stellata — Starred.
Pallens — Pale. Scripta — Lettered.
Undata — Lettered. Nummaria — Coin.
FAMILY 3. — Suborbicular, margin entire.
Multis-striata — Many-striped.
DIVISION III. — WITH THE TEETH OF THE HINGE PRODUCED
AND SHARPLY POINTED.
*Nucleus — Silvery. *Minuta — Small.
*Rostrata — Beaked. *Tenuis — Thin.
OSTREA.— OYSTER AND SCALLOP.
Animal — a Tethys : Shell bivalve, generally with unequal
valves, and slightly eared ; hinge without teeth, but fur-
nished with an ovate hollow, and mostly lateral transverse
grooves.
THERE are no less than eighty-eight species in this
genus, which present considerable variety in beauty and
form.
BIVALVES. — OSTREA. 61
The Ostrese are divided into several classes : the first and
second comprise the innumerable varieties of escallops or
scallop shells, and are distinguished from each other by the
proportion of their ears ; the third and remaining divisions
include the species somewhat resembling the common
oyster.
The first division is, for the most part, composed of
very elegant specimens : their form is usually regular, and
their surface is adorned with elevated divergent ribs, in
number from five to forty, which proceed from the tip of
the beaks to the extremity of the margins, and there ter-
minate in a fine scalloped or Vandyked outline, describ-
ing in their course the most graceful expansion possible.
The greater number of the species of this genus are in-
equivalve, that is, the degree of convexity differs in the two
valves of the same specimen, as in the O. ziczac, O. jaco-
bsea, &c. which invariably have the upper valve flat, and the
lower convex. However, in other species, as the O. pallium,
(ducal mantle), &c. the shells are equivalve, i. c. both pos-
sess the same degree of rotundity and gibbosity.
It is remarkable, that in many of the Ostrese the colours
of the upper valve are brighter than those of the lower:
this is particularly observable in the O. pleuronectes, known
by the name of the Compass or Flounder Pecten, which has
one valve perfectly white, and the other of a brownish or
reddish cast. This species has also another peculiarity,
viz. that it invariably gapes at both ends ; whereas, in other
species, the gape is only at one end.
The situation of the beaks often varies considerably ; in
some, as the O. maxima, O. jacobsea, &c. they are placed
in the centre ; whereas, in the O. lima, O. glacialis, &c.
they are situated obliquely, or on one side, which gives the
outline of the shell an appearance of slight distortion, oc-
casioned by one margin being straight and flattened, white
the other remains round and inflated.
62 BIVALVES. — OSTREA.
There is also considerable variation in the size and form
of the ears, which in some species are nearly of the same
dimensions; but, in many, one is much larger than the
other ; and in a few, they are hardly discernible.
The ears of many of the scallops are almost smooth on
the outside, but some are rough, and even spined. The
O. pallium and others have one ear ciliate, and are spin-
ed within.
The exterior of the shells, as has been before observed,
is usually covered with elevated longitudinal ribs and
grooves, which are variously diversified with beautiful co-
lours and fine chequer-work. The ribs are mostly covered
with undulated and transverse striae, not unfrequently as-
suming the appearance of elevated scales, as in the O. im-
bricata. In others, again, the striae are crenated, as in the
O. radula; and some, as the O. nodosa, &c. have large
knobs or tubercles raised upon the ribs.
The margins of the interior of the Ostrese are generally
crenated, and often beautifully coloured.
The hinge is universally without teeth, and furnished
with an ovate hollow; in the vicinity of which are placed
lateral transverse grooves, running in a parallel direction
in both valves, but not locking into each other, as in the
genus Area.
The common scallop, O. maxima, is found in most Eu-
ropean seas, in large beds, from which they are dredged by
the fishermen, and afterwards pickled and barrelled for
sale ; they are also sometimes brought to market in the state
in which they are caught, and are eaten fresh. These
shells were formerly worn by pilgrims on their hat or coat,
as a mark of their having crossed the sea for the purpose
of paying their devotions at the holy shrine, in Palestine:
in commemoration of which, they are still preserved in the
armorial bearings of many families of distinction.
The scallops are found harbouring among fuci and zo~
BIVALVES. — OSTREA. 63
ophytes : they have the faculty of leaping out of the water,
and are enabled to effect a very rapid motion, by opening
and closing their valves.
The third division of Ostreae consists of those which
in construction, substance, and colouring, are more nearly
allied to the common or eatable oyster. The species of
these divisions are of a much more irregular form than the
scallops, and are usually very rugged, unfinished looking
shells. The hammer oyster, O. malleus, is perhaps the
most remarkable of this class ; its form resembles that of
a long-headed hammer, or more properly a pick-axe : there
are two distinguishable varieties of it, viz. the white and
the black, both of which, when in fine preservation,
are considered rare and valuable. These shells are rough
and plaited on the outside, but their inside is smooth and
glossy, having a steel blue colour or metallic lustre diffused
over the surface.
The hinge of some of the species, as the O. perna and O.
isognomon, has a perpendicular grooved line attached to
it. Some, again, as the O. lima, &c. gape at the hinge ;
others terminate in a long beak from the hinge upwards,
as the O. virginea.
The species of the fourth division are parasitical, and
some have the appearance of a dried leaf, as the O. folium,
&c. which often adhere to the roots and stumps of trees,
especially the mangrove, and are also found affixed to the
gorgonise.
The O. crista-galli and the other species of the third fami-
ly of the fourth division were, in the former editions of this
work, which closely adopted Gmelin's arrangement, classed
among the Mytili ; but, guided by the character of the shells,
we have removed them to this genus, to which they indis-
putably belong. These attach themselves to foreign bodies
by a formation of the shell itself, which has the appearance
of several distinct claws or hands.
64 BIVALVES. — OSTREA.
The common oyster (O. edulis) is too well known for
its nutritious and palatable properties to require much de-
scription ; suffice it to say, that the exterior of the shell is
usually covered with undulated and imbricated scales, of
a yellowish or pinkish olive cast; and the old shells are of-
ten covered with various adhesions, such as anomiae, ser-
pulse, lepades, sertulariae, and other marine productions.
The interior of the shell has generally a pearly appearance,
and specimens are often found containing pearls. They
are to be met with in most seas, occasionally in clusters,
affixed to rocks and other substances. In some places they
are considered so profitable a branch of traffic, that the
greatest care is taken to promote their generation and
growth. By proper management their multiplication be-
comes immense. They are often formed into large layers
or beds, extending many miles ; which, in favourable sea-
sons, prove a submarine mine of wealth to their propri-
etors.
Ostrese are found in every part of the world ; but the
most rare are produced in the Indian seas.
OSTREA — Oyster or Scallop.
DIVISION I. — VALVES WITH EARS EQUAL.
FAMILY 1. — Valves ribbed, upper valve flat.
*Maxima — Greatest. Ziczac — Zigzag.
*Jacob8ea — Lesser. Striatula — Sixteen-rayed.
Minuta — Minute.
FAMILY 2. — Valves ribbed, ears equal.
Hybrida — Hybrid. Imbricata — Imbricated.
Radula — Rasp. Plica — Folded.
Hians — Gaping.
FAMILY 3. — Valves flattish on one side and gaping.
Lima— File. *Fasciata— Banded.
BIVALVES. — OSTREA. 65
Bullata — Swollen. Glacialis — Icy.
Fragilis — Brittle. Excavata — Hollow.
Scabra — Rough. *Loscombia — Loscomb's.
FAMILY 4. — Fakes smooth or striated, and not closing.
Pleuronectes — Sole. Japonica — Japanese.
Magellanica — Magellanic.
DIVISION II. — VALVES WITH UNEQUAL EARS.
FAMILY 1. — Valves ribbed.
Pes-lutrse — Otter' s-foot. * Varia — Variegated.
Pallium — Ducal Mantle. Sauciata — Unequal-rayed.
Sanguinolenta — Blood-spot. Pusio — Wrinkled.
Palliata — Variegated. *Sinuosa — Distorted.
Nodosa — Knobbed. Miniata — Vermilion.
Pes-felis — Cat's Foot. Triradiata — Three-rayed.
Sulcata — Sulcated. Solaris — Solar.
*Cinnabarica — Red. Glabra — Glabrous.
Senatoria — Senator. *Opercularis — Painted.
Citrina — Yellow. *Lineata — Lined.
Pellucens — Pellucid. Nucleus — Kernel.
Obliterata — Worn. Gibba — Gibbous.
Sanguinea — Scarlet. Turgida — Turgid.
Porphyria— Porphyry. Pyxidata — Box-like.
Flavicans — Yellow.
FAMILY 2. — Valves smooth.
Tigrina — Tiger. Vitrea — Glassy.
Fuci — Fucus. *Obsoleta — Obsolete.
Exotica — Exotic. *Laevis — Smooth.
Proteus — Variable.
DIVISION III. — OBLONG, LINEAR.
FAMILY 1. — With a transverse lobe on each side of the hinge.
Malleus — Hammer.
FAMILY 2. — With a slight beak on one side of the hinge.
Figurata — Figured.
66 BIVALVES. — OSTREA.
FAMILY 3— Rounded at the hinge.
Regula — Tongue-shaped.
FAMILY 4. — Valves diverging at the hinge, and the inside
vaulted '.
Fornicata — Vaulted.
DIVISION IV. — PARASYTICAL, OR ATTACHED TO OTHER
SUBSTANCES,
FAMILY 1. — With one valve produced at the summit.
Cucullata — Hooded. Forskalii — Forskael's.
Virginea — Virginian. Cristata — Crested.
Rostrata — Beaked. Sinensis — Chinese.
FAMILY 2. — With the valves nearly equal,
Orientalis — Indian. Orbicularis — Orbicular.
Folium — Foliated. Arborea — Tree.
Plicata — Plaited. Senegalensis — Senegal.
FAMILY 3. — With the valves strongly plaited longitudinally.
Crista-galli — Coxcomb. Hyotis — Horned.
Frons — Crested.
DIVISION V. — WITH THE HINGE COMPOSED OF TRANSVERSE
FURROWS IN A STRAIGHT LINE.
Crenatula — Crenated. Ephippium — Saddle.
Semiaurita — Half -eared. Alata — Winged.
Pern a — Oblong. Picta — Painted.
Isognomon — Long-hinged. Legumen — Pod-shaped.
DIVISION VI. — VALVES SLIGHTLY STRIATED, LOWER VALVE
TURNING UP AT ITS SIDES, AND THE CARTILAGE OF
THE HINGE PLACED IN A DEEP NARROW GROOVE.
Spondyloidea — Spondyloid. Ovalis — Oval.
DIVISON VII. — VALVES COARSE AND RUGGED, AND NOT COM-
PREHENDED IN THE FORMER DIVISIONS.
Denticulata — Toothed. *Edulis — Eatable.
BIVALVES. — ANOMIA. 67
ANOMIA. — ANOMIA OR ANTIQUE LAMP.
Animal — an emarginated, ciliated, strap-shaped body,
with bristles or fringe affixed to the upper valve; arms
two, linear, longer than the body ; connivent projecting,
alternate on the valve, and ciliate on each side, the fringe
affixed to each valve : Shell bivalve, inequivalw, one of
the valves flattish, the other gibbous at the base, with a
produced beak, generally curved over the hinge ; one of
the valves often perforated near the base; hinge with a
linear, prominent cicatrix, and a lateral tooth placed
within, but in the flat valve, on the very margin; two
bony rays for the base of the animal.
OF this curious genus of Bivalves there are thirty spe-
cies.
The shells are usually inequivalve, one of them often
flattish, the other gibbous at the base, terminating in a
produced beak, which curves upwards over the hinge.
There is frequently a small perforation near the base,
through which the animal thrusts a strong ligament,
whereby it affixes itself to different marine substances, as
fuci, crabs, spines of echini, and especially to the stars of
the Madrepora prolifera.
The Anomise differ materially in form, some resembling
the shape of an oyster, as the A. cepa, A. ephippium, &c.,
all of which have the lower valve flat and perforated. Others,
again, are imperforated and nearly orbicular, as the A.
craniolaris, A. placenta, &c., and some are oblong, as the
A. bifida, &c. Many of them, when viewed in profile,
resemble the form of an antique lamp, as the A. caput<-
serpentis, &c. and a few are very similar to the hooked or
curved beak of a parrot, as the A. psittacea, &c.
68 BIVALVES. — ANOMIA.
The hinge of the Anomia admits of considerable vari-
ation ; but its most leading character is that of being fur-
nished with a linear prominent cicatrix, and a lateral tooth
placed within. On the margin of the flattest valve in
many species are placed two bony rays, or linear callosities,
which serve as a base for the animal ; but some have only
one in each valve.
The interior of the shell is often silvery, and the margin
is frequently crenated, notched, or toothed, but in many it
is perfectly entire.
The prevailing colour in this genus is that of a dirty yel-
low, or dusky white; however, some are bright yellow, as
the A. electrica. The A. cepa (the onion peel), and the
A. sella (the saddle oyster), have a fine coppery or bronze-
like appearance; and the A. Capensis and A. sanguinea
exhibit a beautiful pink or red colouring. The A. psittacea,
and other similar species, have a dingy or olive black co-
lour, and a few are found of a shining jet black.
Some of the Anomise are almost smooth ; others, on the
contrary, are ribbed and striated, as the A. muricata, which
is covered with scales and hollow spines of considerable
length; and others decline on the fore-part, and have a
groove or channel running down the middle of the shell.
The Anomiae are generally thin and delicate shells, and
usually semitransparent. The A. placenta (the cake) but
commonly called the Chinese window oyster, when in a
young state, becomes so transparent by the process of po-
lishing, that it is frequently made use of by the ingenious
Chinese as a substitute for glass.
The European, Indian, American, and African oceans
supply many species of the Anomia, as also do the Me-
diterranean and Northern seas.
BIVALVES. — ANOMIA. 69
ANOMIA— Anomia.
DIVISION I. — Lower valve flat and per/orated.
Craniolaris — Cranium. *Aculeata — Prickly-valved.
Turbinata — Top-shaped. Muricata — Muricated.
*Ephippium — Orbicular. *Undulata — Striated.
*Cepa — Onion. Patelliformis — Limpet- shaped.
*Electrica — Small-amber. Squama — Scaly.
Punctata — Dotted. Bifida — Bifid.
*Cylindrica — Cylindrical.
DIVISION II. — Having the umbo perforated, and generally a car-
tilaginous substance in the interior of the shell.
Scobinata — Rough. Sanguinea — Scarlet-rayed.
Aurita — Eared. Caput-serpentis—Snake's-head.
Retusa — Blunt. * Terebratula — Lamp.
Truncata — Truncated. Cranium — Brittle.
Capensis — Cape. Cruenta — Blood-red.
Decollata — Semicircular. Dorsata — Keeled.
Pubescens — Downy. Psittacea — Parrot-beak.
Rosea — Pink.
DIVISION III. — Irnperf orated, and having a truncated triangular
hinge.
Placenta— Cake. Sella — Saddle.
70 BIVALVES. — MYTILUS.
MYTILUS.— MUSCLE.
Animal allied to an Ascidia : Shell bivalve, rough, gene-
rally affixed by a byssus orbeardof silky filaments; hinge
mostly without teeth, with generally a subulate, excavated
longitudinal line.
OF the genus Mytilus there are enumerated forty-six
species; though some of these are a little indistinct in char-
acter, yet the greatest proportion of them bear a near al-
liance to the general form and habits of the common or
eatable muscle. There are, indeed, a few exceptions, such
as the M. margaritiferus (true mother-of-pearl shell), and
others of a similar description ; some of which we have re-
moved from the position they occupied in this genus in the
former editions of the present work, into the third family
of the fourth division of the Ostrea genus, as they exhibit
strong evidence of belonging to that genus.
The hinge of the Mytilus is usually without teeth, hav-
ing generally a subulate excavated line in place of them.
Some species have, however, little denticulations with al-
ternate grooves, which vary in number from ten to fifty ;
in the M. niger, which has the greatest number, they
amount to one hundred.
The general appearance of muscles differs greatly : some
being perfectly smooth, and beautifully marbled and va-
riegated with fine colouring; others are elegantly radiated
with purple and white, like a tulip ; and some again are
coarsely ribbed and grained with minute tubercles, and of
one colour only, such as black, blue, green, yellow, or brown.
Most of them are indebted to their epidermis for whatever
outward colour they may possess ; when this is removed, so
different a surface is often presented, that even an adept
BIVALVES. — MYTILUS. 71
might be puzzled to recognise two shells of the same spe-
cies. In some specimens the epidermis is bearded or
shaggy. In a few instances, the valves gape, as in the M.
bilocularis, and other similar species.
The greater part of this genus exhibit internally a pearly
appearance, and some (when uncoated and polished) afford
the brightest radiance possible. The M. margaritiferus is
admired for the iridescent colours it displays, and is, more-
over, famous for the fine and valuable pearls it engenders
within its silvery valves. The young shells of this species
are sometimes so different to the adults in appearance, that
they can scarcely be known for the same.
Some of the Mytili possess the faculty of penetrating
coral-rocks, hard marble, and limestone. Of this class are
the M. lithophagus and M. rugosus; the latter is sometimes
found in lakes as well as in the sea.
A few species, on a superficial glance, might be mistaken
as belonging to the genus Mya; viz. the M. latus, M. dis-
cors, and M. ungulatus ; but, by a minute inspection of the
hinge, the error would soon be discovered.
The M. edulis affixes itself to other bodies, by means of
a silky byssus ; it is found in immense beds or layers, con-
sisting of many myriads.
The M. cygneus and M. anatinus, (both fresh-water
species), frequently become the food of birds and aquatic
fowls.
The Mytili from the rivers in Africa are often of great
beauty when polished, and exhibit fine colours.
The Indian, Atlantic, American, and Northern oceans
produce many species; some are also from New Zealand,
the Mediterranean, Russian, and Red seas.
72 BIVALVES. — MYTILUS.
MYTILUS— Muscle.
DIVISION I. — SHELL OBLONG, UMBONES OR APICES TER-
MINAL AND POINTED, SLIGHTLY ANGULATED AT ONE
SIDE, AND ROUNDED AT THE LOWER MARGIN.
*Edulis— Eatable. Latus — Broad.
*Pellucidus — Pellucid. Perna — Lengthened.
Vulgaris — Small. Smaragdinus — Green.
Bilocularis — Two-celled. Confusus — Wedge-shap'd.
Ungulatus — Ox-hoof. Bidens — Double tooth'd.
Exustus — Rose-coloured. Puniceus — Ventricose.
Striatulus — Striated. Demissus — Silvery.
Niger — Black. Ruber— Red.
DIVISION II. — TRANSVERSELY OVATE, WITH LONGITUDINAL
RIBS ON EACH SIDE, AND PLAIN OR STRIATED
IN THE MIDDLE.
*Discrepans — Compartment. *Discors — Discordant.
Impactus — Wool- coated.
DIVISION III. — FOUND BURROWED IN ROCKS, CORALS, &c.
Lithophagus — Burrowing. *Praecisus — Truncated.
Aristatus — Crossbeak'd. Fuscus — Brown.
*Ambiguus — Ambiguous. Plicatus — Plaited.
*Rugosus — Rugged. Niveus — Snow-white.
Coralliophagus — Coral-piercer. Arborescens — Dendritical.
DIVISION IV. — SHELL OBLONG, GIBBOUS, WITH THE POS-
TERIOR SIDE DILATED AND ELEVATED ABOVE
THE HINGE, APEX ROUNDED.
*Modiolus — Great.
DIVISION V. — ONLY FOUND IN FRESH WATER.
*Cygneus — Swan. *Anatinus — Duck.
Fluviatilis — River. *Fucatus — Avon.
Stagnalis — Stagnant. Dubius — Doubtful.
Americanus — American.
BIVALVES. — PINNA. 73
DIVISION VI. — EARED.
FAMILY 1. — Valves rather compressed.
Margaritiferus — Pearl. Radiatus — Rayed.
Unguis — Nail.,
FAMILY 2. — With one valve more convex than the other.
Hirundo — Swallow. Morio — Mulberry*
Ala-corvi — Crow's wing.
DIVISION VII. — SHELL SUBORBICULAR, LONGITUDINALLY
STRIATED, AND MARGIN CRENULATED.
Faba — Bean.
DIVISION VIII. — SOMEWHAT TONGUE-SHAPED, APICES
ACUTE.
Lingua — Tongue. Camellii — Camellius'.
PINNA.— FIN-SHELL, NACRE, OR SEA-WING.
Animal — a Limax : Shell bivalve, fragile, upright, gaping
at one end, and furnished with a byssus or beard; hinge
without teeth, the valves united into one.
THE number of species contained in this genus is limit-
ed to twenty-one, and some of those are so alike, as barely
to admit of being called distinct.
The usual form of the Pinnae is allied to that of the larger
species of muscles, being long and tapering, narrow at the
beaks, and gradually expanding to a considerable breadth
at the opposite extremity : there are some instances where
the form is more compressed.
The Pinnae are by no means so entire or solid as the
muscles, for they are (with few exceptions) exceedingly
74 BIVALVES. — PINNA.
brittle or fragile in substance, and almost invariably gape
at one end.
The greatest portion of the Pinnae have longitudinal ribs,
on which are placed elevated transverse striae, often ter-
minating in imbricated arched scales, and prominent ca-
naliculated tubular spines; the P. rudis and P. muricata
may be adduced as examples : in the younger shells of
these two species, the spines appear only as minute
prickles. In other specimens, as the P. saccata (satchel),
&c. the ribs are not so articulate, but are more undulated,
and perfectly free from scales or spines.
The Pinnae have usually a horn-like appearance, which
is often overcast with a steel-blue or copper-coloured gloss.
The hinge is invariably without teeth; the valves never-
theless adhere so closely in the region of the beaks, that
they appear as if united together.
Some of the young shells of this genus are less than an
inch in length, but the adults often exceed three feet.
This genus produces, in large quantities, a very fine sort
of byssus or beard, which the Maltese frequently convert
into sundry articles of wearing apparel, vieing in appear-
ance with the finest silk.
The Pinnae are usually found in smooth water and bays,
with the smaller end sticking in the mud or sand, and the
wide end a little open. The animal, in some places, is ac-
counted excellent food.
The Mediterranean produces Pinnae in great number:
they are also to be found in the Indian, American, Atlan-
tic, and European oceans; as well as in the Adriatic and
Red seas.
The Pinna, probably, derives its name from its resem-
blance to a wing or fin of a fish.
BIVALVES. — PINNA. 75
PINNA— Sea Wing.
DIVISION I. — Shells longitudinally ribbed.
Rudis — Rough. Adusta—Pear-shap'd.
*Pectinata — Spiny-ribb'd. Vexillum — Banner.
Inflata — Inflated. Squamosa — Scaly.
*Carnea — Flesh-colour' d. Vitrea — Brittle.
Rigida — Rigid. Papyracea — Paper.
Nobilis — Great. Saccata — Satchel. J-t^
Muricata — Prickly. Cancellata — Cancellated.
DIVISION II. — Shell nearly smooth and plain.
Nigra — Black. Bicolor — Two-colour 'd.
*Ingens — Scotch. Incurva — Incurved.
Rotundata — Giant. Digitiformis — Finger- shap'd.
Lobata — Lobed.
76
ORDER III.
UNIVALVES
I. SHELLS OF ONE PART ONLY, AND HAVING A REGULAR SPIRE.
ARGONAUTA. — PAPER SAILOR.
Animal — a Clio: Shell univalve, spiral, involute, membra-
naceous, one celled.
THE genus Argonauta contains but nine species: in so
small a number, much variety is not to be expected.
The form resembles a scroll, with a large aperture. The
surface is ornamented with canaliculated grooves, proceed-
ing from the summit to the outer margin, which is gene-
rally bicarinated; but in the A. vitrea (the glassy nautilus)
the margin is single : this is the most rare and beautiful
species of the genus.
The Argonautae are remarkable for their excessive thin-
ness, brittleness, and lightness. The A. argo, usually
known by the name of the Paper Nautilus, is supposed, in
the early ages of society, to have first taught men the use
of sails.
A mucilaginous animal, called Poulpe, is often mistaken
for the Paper Nautilus ; it is seen sailing on the ocean with
UNIVALVES.— ARGONAUTA. 77
its arms erect, and a membrane thrown out between them,
by which means it is driven forward, like a vessel under
sail. The Mediterranean often has large fleets of these
diminutive navigators floating upon its calm surface.
The colour of the Argonautae is mostly blueish, or yellow-
ish-white, having the keel often tinged with a brownish
hue.
As to size, the Argonautse differ greatly; the A. argo,
for instance, often attains ten or twelve inches in width ;
while the A. cornu and A. arctica seldom exceed three or
four lines in diameter.
The Mediterranean and Indian seas produce some va-
rieties ; others are found at the Cape of Good Hope ; and
some inhabit the Northern and Greenland seas.
They are supposed to have derived their name from the
Argonauts.
ARGONAUTA— Paper Sailor.
DIVISION I. — KEEL TOOTHED.
FAMILY 1. — Summit interiorly curved.
Argo — Oriental. Hians — Gaping.
Tuberculata — Tuberculated. Gondola — Boat.
Haustrum — Bucket.
FAMILY 2. — Summit exteriorly curved.
Vitrea — Brittle.
DIVISION II. — KEEL NOT TOOTHED.
Cyinbium — Minute. Cornu — Horn-shap'd.
DIVISION III. — UMBILICUS PERFORATED.
Arctica — Arctic.
78 UNIVALVES.— NAUTILUS.
NAUTILUS.— PEARLY SAILOR.
Animal — (vide Rumpf. Mus. tab. 17, fig. B.) Shell uni-
valve, divided into several compartments, communicating
with each other by an aperture.
THIS genus contains thirty-six species, which are all
nearly allied in general formation and structure. The
most characteristic mark of the genus is, that the whirls
are generally divided into distinct compartments or cham-
bers, connected by a slender siphon, which runs spirally
through the shell. This siphon is in some species cen-
tral, and in others contiguous to the surface.
The shells of the first and second divisions are spiral or
scroll-like; but, in the third, they are dentiform, and re-
semble the Dentalia. The whirls in the first division are
contiguous ; while, in the second and third, they are de-
tached.
The N. pompilius, when bisected, exhibits in an eminent
degree the pearly concamerations for which this genus is
distinguished. The inhabitants of the East often convert
fine specimens of the above species into drinking cups;
they carve the surface into various devices and ornaments,
and also frequently remove the outer coating entirely, by
which the beautiful pearly appearance of the shell becomes
visible. The umbilicated varieties of this species are rare.
The size of the Nautili differs exceedingly; some are so
small as only to be defined by the microscope.
Some species of this genus are found adhering to coral
rocks ; the N. siphunculus is often found on the coral reefs
on the Sicilian shores.
The American and Indian oceans, and the Mediterra-
nean, Adriatic, and Red seas, produce some of the species
UNIVALVES. — NAUTILUS. 79
of the Nautili; but by far the greater number are found on
the British, and most of the European coasts.
NAUTILUS— Sailor.
DIVISION I. — Spiral, with contiguous whirls.
Pompilius — Great-chambered. Scrobiculatus — Sunken-spire.
*Lacustris — Lake.
Minute or Microscopic Shells.
Calcar — Spur. Balthicus — Baltic.
*Rotatus — Wheel. *Crassulus — Strong.
*Laevigatulus — Smooth. *Umbilicatulus — Umbilicated.
*Depressulus — Compressed. *Lobatulus — Lobed.
*Crispus — Keel-edged. Rugosus — Rugged.
*Beccarii — Beccaria's. Umbilicatus — Oblique-jointed.
DIVISION II. — Spiral, with detached whirls.
Spirula — Ram's-horn.
Minute Shells.
Spengleri — Spengler's. Unguiculatus — Nail-shap'd.
DIVISION III. — Elongated and almost straight.
Minute.
*Semilituus — Half-crozier. *Spinulosus — Spinous-jointed.
Lituus — Crazier. *Sub-arcuatus — Sub-arcuated.
*Carinatulus — Keeled. *Bicarinatus — Bicarinated.
*Obliquus — Obliquely -striated. Fascia — Banded.
Raphanistrum — Twelve- striated. Insequalis — Unequal.
Raphanus — Seventeen- striated. Siphunculus — Piped.
*Costatus — Ribbed. *Legumen — Pod.
Granum — Eight- striated. *Linearis — Linear.
*Radicula — Bulbous-jointed. *Rectus — Straight.
80 UNIVALVES. — CONUS.
CONUS.— CONE.
Animal — a Limax: Shell univalve, convolute, turUnate;
aperture effuse, longitudinal, linear, without teeth, entire
at the base; pillar smooth.
OF this beautiful and valuable genus, only one hundred
and sixty-five are described as distinct species; but that
number is certainly less than the real amount.
The Cones are very similar in form, their principal dif-
ferences consisting in the colouring, marking, and banding ;
yet, form sometimes assists their arrangement into classes :
for instance, those which have a subtrancated base, as the
C. marmoreus and C. imperialis, constitute one division.
Another division is formed of those species which are py-
riform and rounded at the base, and have a thick structure :
of these, the C. betulinus and C. glaucus may be adduced
as examples. The C. textile and C. aulicus are elongated
and rounded at the base, and are characteristic of the third
division : they somewhat resemble the C. tulipa, C. geogra-
phicus, and C. bullatus, but these are distinguished by hav-
ing a wider aperture, and being more inflated.
Most of the Cones have a smooth surface, and bear a
high natural polish; but some, as the C. nussatella and C.
granulatus, are covered with granulated transverse striae,
and even globular tubercles.
No other genus can vie with the Conus for the beauty
and diversity of the colouring and marking ; and none per-
haps holds so important a station in collections. The lines
on the C. literatus often resemble Hebrew, Greek, or Ara-
bic characters; and the C. ebrseus exhibits similar appear-
ances. In other species the colours are arranged into dif-
ferent shades of cloudings, veins, marblings, dots, stripes,
bands, or reticulations.
UNIVALVES. — CONUS. 81.
Among the rarities may be enumerated the C. ammiralis
or admiral cone, the vice-admirals, guinea-admirals, and
the varieties of the zebra cones from the South Seas ; most
of which, when fine, are frequently estimated at from one
to ten guineas. But this price appears trifling when com-
pared with the value of the C. gloria-maris ; which, incre-
dible as it may appear, was estimated at one hundred
guineas. The following are also considered rare and beau-
tiful: the C. aurisiacus, C.glaucus, C. nobilis, and a variety
of C. quercinus, which has been found at the Friendly
Islands, surrounded with an elevated girdle,
The far greater number of species are found in the In-
dian ocean ; some are brought from the shores of Africa
and America; and others from the South Seas.
CONUS— Cone.
DIVISION I. — SPIRE SUBTRUNCATED.
FAMILY 1. — Spire coronated.
Marmoreus — Marbled. Zonatus — Zoned.
Nocturnus — Night. Imperialis — Imperial.
Nicobaricus — Nicobar. Fuscatus — Clouded.
Arachnoideus — Spider-web. Candidus — While.
FAMIL\ 2. — Spire plain or channelled.
Literatus — Lettered. Mustelinus — Weasel.
Eburneus — Square- spotted. Leopardus — Leopard.
Tessellatus — Mosaic. Hyaena — Hyena.
Generalis — General. Miles — Soldier.
Monile— Necklace. Centurio— Centurion.
Canaliculatus — Grooved. Fusiformis — Fusiform.
Radiatus — Radiated. Spurius — Spurious.
Virgo — Virgin. Leoninus — Lion.
Capitaneus — Captain. Characteristicus — Arabic.
Chemnitzii — Chemnitz's. Cserulescens — Blue.
Zebra — Zebra.
E3
82 UNIVALVES. — CONUS.
DIVISION II. — PYRIFORM, ROUNDED AT THE BASE.
FAMILY I. — Spire coronated.
Cedo-nulli — Matchless. Pulicarius — Flea-spot*
Aurantius — Orange. Obesus — Fat.
Leucostictus — Veined. Piperatus — Punctured.
Tseniatus — American-flag. Varius — Various.
Musicus — Music. Coronatus — Coronated.
Miliaris — Millet. Barbadensis — Barbadoes.
Luzonicus — Spotted-velvet. Rosens — Rose- coloured.
Lividus — Livid. Coccineus — Scarlet.
Mus — Mouse. Citrinus — Citron-colour.
Distans — Wide-lined. Sponsalis — Pink-spotted, [ed.
Caledonicus — Caledonian. Puncturatus — Groove-punctur-
Costatus — Ribbed. Ceylonensis — Ceylonese.
Ebrseus — Hebrew. Exiguus — Narrow.
Princeps — Persian-robe. Pusillus — Dwarf.
Arenatus — Sandy. Lamellosus — Plaited- spire.
Sulcatus — Grooved.
FAMILY 2. — Spire plain or channelled.
Janus — Janus. Suratensis — Surat.
Guinaicus — Guinea. Monachus — Monk.
Fulmineus — Lightning. Ranunculus — Ranunculus.
Lorenzianus — Lorenza's. Anemone — Anemone.
Amadis — Amadis. Achatinus — Tulip.
Acuminatus — Sharp-pointed. Rusticus — Rustic.
Thomee — St. Oma's. Nisus — Brown-throated.
Ammiralis — Admiral. Coffeae — Coffee.
Archithalassus — Granulated. Vittatus — Ribbon.
Vitulinus — Spotted. Classarius — Sailor.
Planorbis — Depressed-spire. Mercator — Net-work.
Senator — Senator. Betulinus — Birch- bark.
Catus — Cat. Figulinus — Brown- banded.
Nobilis — Noble. Inornatus — Naked.
Siamensis — Siamese. Quercinus — Box- wood.
Genuanus — Gartered. Lineatus — Lineated.
Papilionaceus — Butterfly' s-wing. Eques — Equestrian.
Fluctifer — Prometheus. Ermineus — Ermine.
Glaucus — Brownish. Vexillum— Flag.
UNIVALVES. — CONUS. 83
Testudinarius — Turtle. Mediterraneus — Olive-clouded.
Venulatus — Veined. Puncticulatus — Red-dotted.
Namocanus — Ashwood. \ted. Mauritianus — Mauritian.
Stercus- muscarum — Fly-spot- Verrucosus — Warted.
Cancellatus — Cancellated. Columba — Dove.
Portoricanus — Porto Rico. Madurensis — Green-cross.
Tinianus — Red- colour1 d. Jaspideus — Jasper.
Taitensis — Blackish-violet. Japonicus — Orange-mottled.
Scabriusculus — Scabrous. Mindanus — White-mottled.
Rattus — Rat. Festivus — Festive.
Jamaicensis — Three-banded. Reticulatus — Netted.
Ferruginosus — Iron- colour' d.
DIVISION III. — ELONGATED AND ROUNDED AT THE BASE.
Clavus — Yellow-veined. Adansoni — Adanson's.
Gradatus — Stepped. Augur — Augur.
Aureus — Golden. Magus — Magician.
Circumcisus — Truncated. Striatus — Striated.
Terebellum — Chocolate. Gubernator — Pilot.
Australis — Southern. Gloria-maris — Glory of the sea.
Laevis — Smooth. Pyramidalis — Pyramid.
Ochroleucus — Yellowish. Textile — Embroidered.
Strigatus — Pale-violet. Abbas — Abbot.
Mitratus — Mitre. Archiepiscopus — Archbishop.
Glans — Acorn. Canonicus — Canonical.
Tenellus — Delicate. Episcopus — Bishop.
Nussatella — Nussatella. Praelatus — Prelate.
Granulatus — Grained. Pennaceus — Plumose.
Fusus — Spindle. Rubiginosus — Orange-brown.
Aurisiacus — Orange, Omaria — Pearl-brown.
Terebra — Whimbte. Aulicus — Brunette.
Raphanus — Radish. Elongatus — Lengthened.
DIVISION IV. — VENTRICOSE, WITH A WIDE APERTURE.
Spectrum — Spectre. Timorensis — Timor.
Informis — Misshapen. Nimbosus — Rainy.
Ventricosus — Ventricose. Tulipa — Tulip.
Bullatus — Bubble. Geographicus — Geographic.
84 UNIVALVES.— CYPR^A.
CYPRJEA.— COWRY OR GOWRIE.
Animal — a Slug: Shell univalve, involute, subovate,
smooth, obtuse at each end: aperture effuse, linear, ex-
tending the whole length of the shell, and toothed on
each side.
THIS beautiful genus contains seventy-three species,
but these may be subdivided into more than a hundred va-
rieties. The shells when arrived at muturity have their
two lips always beset with strong articulate teeth, which is
the characteristic mark of the genus.
The Cyprseae, though very similar in form, possess suf-
ficient distinctions to constitute six divisions: the first in-
cludes those that have a manifest spire, such as the C.
Arabica, C. amethystea (the young of C. Arabica), C. ex-
anthema, C. plumbea (the young of C. exanthema), and
C. mappa. Those, on the contrary, which are without a
manifest spire, form the second division; as the C. caput-
serpentis (snake's head), and C. Mauritiana, The third
division is composed of the umbilicated or perforated va-
rieties; such as the C. ziczac, C. asellus, &c. Those spe-
cies which are marginated form the fourth class : viz. the
C. moneta, and C. annulus, &c. The C. moneta is fished
up by the negro women, three days before or after full
moon, and transported into Bengal, Siam, America, and
the adjacent islands; where it is used by the native blacks as
a substitute for money. The fifth division is composed of
those species which have their backs wrinkled, such as the
C. oniscus, C. sulcata, &c. And the sixth, of such as are
beaked at the extremities, as for example the C. nucleus,
C. staphylea, &c.
Most of the Cowries are smooth glossy shells, of exqui-
site brilliancy of colour, and elegantly marked with dots,
UNIVALVES. — CYPRJSA. 85
zigzag lines, undulations, streaks, &c. ; which are beauti-
fully exemplified in the C. mappa, the C. argus, and the C.
testudinaria. To these may be added the C. vitellus, the
C. carneola, the C. talpa, and others of the like description.
Some of the species, however, have but little colouring,
and have their surfaces covered with small globular tuber-
culations or warts, as the C. pustulata.
One of the largest and most valuable Cowries is the C.
aurora, or orange cowry, which is found, though very
rarely, at the Friendly Isles. Of the smaller cowries> the
C. stolida and the C. pustulata are considered rare.
The greater proportion of the Cypraese are found in the
Indian ocean; many, however, come from the American,
African, and Mediterranean shores; some also from the
South seas.
CYPR^EA— Cowry.
DIVISION I. — SPIRE NOT QUITE CONCEALED.
Exanthema — False-argus. Carneola — Flesh-colour' d.
Mappa — Map. Talpa — Mole.
Arabica — Arabic. Lurida — Lurid.
Histrio — Harlequin, Vanelli — Saffron-throated.
Argus — Argus. Lota — White.
Testudinaria — Tortoise-shell. Guttata — Dotted.
Stercoraria — Livid. Sanguinolenta — Sanguine.
Aurora — Orange. Undata — Waved.
Teres — Long.
DIVISION II. — OBTUSE, SPIRE QUITE CONCEALED.
Achatina — Agate. Pantherina— Panther.
Caput-serpentis — Snake' s~head. Lynx — Lynx.
Mauri tiana — Blackish-brown. Felina — Feline.
Vitellus — White-spotted. Cinerea — Ash-colour' d.
Mus — Mouse. Isabella — Yellow.
Tigris — Tiger. Cylindrica — Cylindric.
Indica — Green- spotted.
86 UNIVALVES. — CYPR.EA.
DIVISION III. — UMBILICATED.
Onyx — Onyx. Hirundo — Swallow.
Subflava — Yellowish. Ursellus — Brown-spot.
Clandestina — Clandestine. Lutea — Yellow.
Succincta — Banded. Asellus — Three-banded.
Ziczac — Ziczac. Errones — Olive-mottled.
Zonata — Zoned. Pyrum — Pear.
Punctata — Dotted.
DIVISION IV. — WITH THE MARGIN THICKENED.
Moneta — Money. Stolida — Square-spotted.
Annulus — Annular. Tabescens — Slender.
Caurica — Thick-edg'd. Helvola — Star.
Dracaena — Angular-marked. Angustata — Narrow.
Cruenta — Ferruginous. Ocellata — Eyed.
Cribraria — Umbilicated. Albuginosa — Bird's-eye.
Erosa — Bordered. Poraria — White-spot.
Flaveola — Ochreous. Gangranosa — Gangrene.
Spurca — Narrow -margined. Fimbriata — Fimbriated.
Tessellata — Mosaic.
DIVISION V. — WITH THE BACKS RIBBED, WRINKLED, OR
TUBERCULATED.
Oniscus — Woodlouse. Europea — European.
Sulcata — Sulcated. Ma.&agasca.riens\s-Madagascar.
Aperta — Wide-mouth' d. Pustulata — Pustulated.
DIVISION VI. — BEAKED AT THE EXTREMITIES.
FAMILY 1. — Having raised dots on the back.
Nucleus — Wrinkled. Staphylea — Groove-back' d.
Cicercula — Vetch.
FAMILY 2. — With the back smooth.
Margarita — Pearl. Globulus — Globular.
UNIVALVES. — BULLA. 87
BULLA. — DIPPER OR BUBBLE.
Animal — a Limax: Shell univalve, convolute, unarmed
with teeth: aperture a little straitened, oblong, longitu-
dinal, very entire at the base ; pillar oblique, smooth.
THIS genus, which contains fifty-five species, is in some
instances so nearly allied to the preceding, that much cau-
tion is necessary to prevent confusion in the classification ;
so great indeed is the difficulty of distinguishing the young
shells of the Bulla and Cyprsea, that the two genera have
heen intermixed by some authors. However, one grand
mark of distinction in this genus is, that, in whatever stage
of growth its species are found, they never have teeth on
both their lips, the pillar-lip being invariably free from
any appearance of denticulations ; while in the Cyprseae,
both the pillar and outer lips are crenated with very articu-
late and prominent teeth. There is also a greater variety
of form in the Bullse than in the Cypraese. Some species,
as the B. volva, or weaver's shuttle, are of an elongated
form, having the length much increased by two produced
beaks.
The next variation of form is discernible in the B. ovum,
or poached egg, of which there are two varieties : the com-
mon, from Amboyna, is white without, and yellow within ;
the rarer, from the Friendly Isles, is white without, and
pink within. These shells are less beaked and more gib-
bous than the B. volva, and lead into the following orbicu-
lar species, viz. the B. naucum, B. physis, B. ampulla, &c.
These are without teeth, and rather umbilicated.
The B. terebellum is an exception to the general form of
the Bullse, its shape being remarkably long and slender,
and resembling a lengthened olive.
88 UNIVALVES.— BULLA.
Some of the Bullse, as the B. ficus and B. rapa, are very
similar to the genus Murex : the latter species is esteemed
a rarity ; the former, on the contrary, is common, and very
much resembles the shape of a fig.
The B. zebra, B. fasciata, B. achatina, and other simi-
lar species, are land shells; in form, they are nearly allied
to the genus Helix. It is remarkable, that the animals
which inhabit them are oviparous. The reverse varieties,
that is to say, those having their whirls or spires twisted
contrary to the usual direction, and having, at the same
time, their mouths placed on the opposite side, are highly
valued. The B. purpurea inhabits Africa, and is found in
rice fields.
Some species of this genus are remarkable for the brit-
tleness and lightness of their shells; such are the B. velum,
B. amplustre, &c.
The inhabitant of the B. lignaria, and, in all probability,
of many other species, is furnished with an organ called a
gizzard, of a testaceous nature.
The different 'species of this genus are to be found in the
Mediterranean, African, American, Indian, European, and
Northern seas.
The Bulla, probably, derives its name from some of the
lesser species resembling a dew-drop, or bubble of water.
BULLA— Dipper.
DIVISION I. — SHELL RESEMBLING THE CYPR^EA GENUS, BUT
TOOTHED ON THE OUTER LIP ONLY.
Ovum — Poached-egg. Nucleus — Wrinkled.
Imperialis — Crumpled. Verrucosa — Warty.
DIVISION II. — SHELL OBLONG, BEAKED AT THE ENDS.
Volva — Weaver's-shuttle. Secale — Rye-shaped.
Lepida— Orange. Spelta— Oblong.
Birostris — Lesser. Gibbosa — Belted.
UNIVALVES. — BULLA. 89
DIVISION III. — SHELL THIN, GIBBOUS, AND APERTURE
LARGE.
FAMILY 1. — Apex generally umbilicated and without aspire.
Naucum — Sea-nut. Amygdalus — Almond.
*Aperta — Wide- *Lignaria — Brown-striated.
*Catena — Chain. Pectinata — Pectinated.
*Plumula — Feather. Soluta — Unsealed.
*Hydatis — Paper. *Akera — Elastic.
Ampulla — Pewet's-egg. C ylindrica — Cylindric.
Velum— White- banded.
Shells Minute.
*Cylindracea — Cylindrical. *Retusa — Blunt.
*Umbilicata— Umbilicated. *Obtusa— Obtuse.
FAMILY 2.— Having a spire.
Physis — Striped. Zonata — Zoned.
Amplustre — Banded. Undulata — Undulated.
Scabra — Rough.
DIVISION IV. — SHELL PYRIFORM, WITH PRODUCED BEAK.
Ficus — Fig. Rapa — Turnip-shaped.
Pyrum — Pear. Canaliculata — Channelled.
DIVISION V. — SHELL GENERALLY THIN, SPIRE PROMINENT,
AND BODY WHIRL INFLATED.
Voluta — Volute. Strigata — Yellow- streaked.
Dominicensis — Nine-whirVd. Striatula — Striated.
Crassula — Reversed. . Exarata — Wrlnlded.
*Fontinalis — Fresh-water. Truncata — Truncated.
*Rivalis — River. Priamus — Priam.
*Hypnorum — Slender. Zebra — Zebra.
Gelatinosa — Gelatinous. Achatina — Broad- strip* d.
Virginea — Ribbon. Purpurea — Purple-mouth' 'd.
Fasciata — Banded. Sinistrorsa — Great-revers'd.
DIVISION VI. — SHELL CYLINDRICAL, WITH A SUBULATE SPIRE
AND TRUNCATE BASE.
Terebellum — Awl-shaped.
90 UNIVALVES. — VOLUTA.
VOLUTA.— VOLUTE OR WREATH.
Animal— a Limax : Shell one-celled, spiral; aperture with-
out a beak, and somewhat effuse ; pillar twisted or plait-
ed, generally without lips or perforation.
THE one hundred and ninety-seven species of this genus
are more or less celebrated for their beauty or scarcity ; and
are easily distinguished from all other Univalves, by their
having several teeth or plaits on the columella or pillar-lip.
In some species, the number of teeth amounts only to four
or five; but, in others, as in the Olives, it is unlimited, and
frequently extends to as many as thirty or forty, when they
are much smaller and less articulate.
The Volutes are generally of a smooth and polished sur-
face; among the exceptions may be mentioned the V. tur-
binellus, V. ceramica, V. capitellum, and many of the
mitres.
Among the innumerable varieties of the olives, the camp
or panama (V. porphyrea) is most conspicuous, not only for
the peculiarity of its markings, but also for the consider-
able magnitude it attains. The rest of the species of the
olives, as the V. oliva, V. ispidula, and V. utriculus, &c.
although not remarkable for their scarcity, are much ad-
mired for their beauty and variety.
Some of the rarer Volutes are the produce of the land,
and are curiously distinguished from the rest of the genus
by having their mouths shaped like an ear; such are the
V. auris-Midae, V. auris-Sileni, V. auris-Judae, V. auris-
Malchi, &c. The three first are found in the^marshy woods
and swamps of India, and are numbered among the rari-
ties of the genus. The last is an inhabitant of New Cale-
donia.
UNIVALVES. — VOLUTA. 91
The fusiform or spindle-shaped volutes constitute a large
portion of the genus, and are usually known by the name
of mitres ; some of them are very elegantly formed and
finely tinted in their colouring. The species most worthy
of remark are the V. patriarchalis, the V. pertusa, V. pa-
palis, and V. episcopalis or bishop's mitre, which is fre-
quently found in India; the inhabitant or fish is said to
be of a poisonous nature, and to wound with a kind of
pointed trunk those who touch it. The natives of the island
of Tanna fix these shells in handles, and use them as
hatchets. Among the rest of the elongated form may be
enumerated the V. sanguisuga, V. caffra, V. vulpecula,
and V. plicaria, some of which are considered rare.
The V. musica, or music shell, though not rare, is very
interesting, from the circumstance of having its markings
arranged in parallel lines, like the lines or a stave in mu-
sic, upon which are placed small dots or punctures, in
exact resemblance of the notes and other characters used
in music. The wild music or bat Volute (V. vespertilio)
is a curious variety of the above ; as is also the V. ebraea,
which is esteemed a rarity.
Among the more beautiful species of the Volutes, are
the V. vexillum or orange flag Volute, V. imperialis, V.
Pacifica, the V. lapponica, V. scapha, and V. Magellanica.
The species of Volutes call Melons are mostly of a large
size; and some of them, as the V. Ethiopica or Ethiopian
crown, and its varieties, have their whirls or spires sur-
rounded with elevated hollow spines, forming a perfect
coronation or thorny crown: most of this division are pa-
pillary at the tip.
The heavy and angulated turnips are worthy of notice
among the Volutes, not only on account of their great size,
but for their excessive weight, which, in comparison to
most other shells, is really immense.
The different species of Volutes are found in various
92 UNIVALVES. — VOLUTA.
parts of the world; but, in all probability, the Indian seas
produce the most; though the Atlantic, Pacific, Northern,
and European oceans, also yield their supplies.
VOLUTA— Volute.
DIVISION I. — SHELL OVATE, WITH THE APERTURE GENE-
RALLY EAR-SHAPED AND ENTIRE.
Auris-Midae — Midas' -ear. Auris- virginis — Virgin' s-ear.
Aures-Judse — Judas' -ear. Auris-vulpina — Fox's- ear.
Australis — New Holland. Auris- cati — Cat's-ear.
Auris-Malchi — Malchus'-ear. *Tornatilis — Double-banded.
Glabra — Smooth. Flammea — Variegated.
Auris- Sileni — Silenus'-ear. Solidula — Strong.
Fasciata — Sanded. Livida — Livid.
Coffea — Coffee- colour.
Minute Shells.
Minuta— Minute. *Alba— White.
Flava — Yellow. *Pellucida — Pellucid.
*Denticulata — Toothed. *Unidentata — Single-tooth' d.
Triplicata — Three- tooth' d. *Interstincta — Divided.
Pusilla — Small-oval. *Insculpta — Engraved.
•Bidentala — Double-tooth' d. *Plicatula — Plaited.
*Ambigua — Doubtful.
DIVISION II. — SHELL OVATE, SMOOTH, OUTER MARGIN
THICKENED, APERTURE NEARLY ENTIRE.
Elegans — Elegant. Faba — Bean.
*Pallida — Pallid. Strigata — Wave-striped.
Exilis — Brown- banded. Prunum — Bluish-grey.
Monilis — Necklace. Chemnitzii — Chemnitz's.
Miliaria— Millet. Glabella— Polished.
Guttata — Dotted. Picta — Painted.
Marginata — Margined. Castanea — ChesnuL
UNIVALVES. — VOLUTA. 93
DIVISION III. — SHELL OVATE, SMOOTH, SPIRE FLAT, APER-
TURE EFFUSE AND LINEAR.
Porcellana — Porcelain. Bullata — Bubble.
Persicula — Red-spotted, *Lsevis — Smooth.
Cingulata — Red-lined. *Catenata — Chain- spotted.
DIVISION IV. — SHELL SUB-CYLINDRICAL, ENAMELLED, AND
EMARGINATED.
FAMILY 1. — Spire rather obtuse.
Porphyrea — Porphyry. Incrassata — Thickened.
Erythrostoma — Orange-mouth' d' Pinguis — Quaker.
OHva — Olive. Tigrina — Tiger.
Ventricosa — Ventricose. Carneola — Carnelian.
Utriculus — Bottle-shaped. Micans — Little.
FAMILY 2. — Spire prominent or conical.
Cruenta — Orange-throat. Ampla — Large.
Annulata — Ringed. Nivea — Snowy.
Gibbosa — Gibbous. Jaspidea — Jasper.
Ispidula — Enamelled. Ancilla — Damsel.
Hiatula — Gaping. Nitidula — Delicate.
Oryza — Rice.
DIVISION V. — SHELL FUSIFORM, GENERALLY STRIATED OR
RIBBED, EITHER LONGITUDINALLY OR TRANSVERSELY.
FAMILY 1. — Spire less than half the length of the shell.
Crenulata — Crenulated. Leucozonias — White-striped.
Fenestrata — Eight-plaited. Morio — Tawny.
Dactylus — Six-plaited. Aurantia — Orange.
Conus — Conic. Vitulina — White- banded.
Texturata — Four-plaited. Olivaria — Two- banded.
Microzonias — White-banded. Nubila — Clouded.
Tringa — Decorticated. Pertusa — Punctured.
Fissurata — Straw-colour' d. Spiralis — Spiral.
Barbadensis — Striped. Patriarchalis — Patriarch.
Spadicea — Five-plaited. Muriculata — Walled.
Decussata — Decussated. Paupercula — Zebra.
Variegata — Variegated. Pica — Magpie.
Caffra — Caffre. Ferrugata — Bellied.
94 UNIVALVES. — VOLUTA.
FAMILY 2. — Spire half the length of the shell.
Cornicula — Horn-colour. Rugosa — Rugose.
Schroeteri — Schroeter's. Scutulata — Scutcheon.
Crenifera — Crenated. Nigra — Slack.
Scabricula — Roughly-striated. Casta — Brown- banded.
Ruffina — Reddish-yellow. Serpentina — Serpent.
Vulpecula — Foxy. Digitalis — Fingered.
Castellans — Chequered. Episcopalis — Mitre.
Subdivisa — Subdivided. Papalis — Pope.
Melongena — Fine-ribbed. Thiara — Thiara.
Plicaria — Folded. Goronata — Crown.
Shell less than half an inch in length.
Maculosa — Spotted. Discors — Discordant.
Biplicata — Two-plaited. Striata — Striated.
Turricula — Tower. Laevigata — Smooth.
Lineata — White-lined. Ocellata — Eyed.
Sulcata — Sulcated. Nasuta — Black-spotted.
Marmorea — Marbled.
FAMILY 3. — Spire more than half the length of the shell.
Acuminata — Sharp-pointed. Nodulosa — Nodulous.
Virgo — Virgin. Sanguisuga — Leech.
Filaris — Narrow. Polygona — Polygonal.
Filosa — Threaded. Tseniata — Ribbon.
Clathrus — Cancellated. Cruentata — Knotty-ribbed.
Exasperata — Granulous. Turrita — Turreted.
Costata — Ribbed. Acus — Needle.
Granosa — Grained. Abbatis — Abbot.
DIVISION VI. — SHELL SMALL, THICK, STRONG, HAVING THE
OUTER LIP DENTICULATED, AND RATHER ANGULAR.
Mercatoria — Clouded. Torva — Rough.
Ziervogelii — Thick-lipped. Mendicaria— Black and white.
Rustica — Rustic. Nana — Dwarf.
UNIVALVES. VOLUTA. 95
DIVISION VII. — SHELL EMARGINATE, EFFUSE, AND SPIRE
RATHER PAPILLARY.
FAMILY 1. — Whirls nodulous or plain.
Musica — Music. Harpa — Lyre.
Virescens — Greenish. Magnifica — Magnificent.
Plicata — Plaited. Volva — Whitish.
Ebraea — Hebrew- character. Undulata — Undulated.
Fusiformis — Spindle-shaped. Magellanica — Magellanic.
Flavicans — Yellowish. Rupestris — Lightning.
Nivosa — Snow-spotted. Pacifica — Pacific. .
Vexillum — Banner. Angulata — Angular.
Lapponica — Spotted. Scapha — Clouded.
Junonia — Peacock. Colocynthis — Wide-mouthed.
FAMILY 2. — Whirls crowned with spines.
Imperialis — Imperial. Vespertilio — Bat.
DIVISION VIII. — SHELL VENTRICOSE, AND THE SUMMIT OF
THE SPIRE PAPILLARY.
FAMILY 1. — Spire coronated or nodulous.
Ethiopica — Ethiopic. Tessellata — Tessellated.
Diadema — Diadem. Corona — Ducal-crown.
Cymbiola — Boat.
FAMILY 2. — Spire channelled.
Olla — Melon. Cymbium — Cup-like.
Rubiginosa — Ochreous. Neptuni — Neptune's.
FAMILY 3. — Spire truncated.
Porcina — Keel-margin.
FAMILY 4. — Shell formed by one broad whirl.
Glans — Reddish- yellow. Navicula — Gondola.
FAMILY 5. — Spire nearly buried in the body whirl.
Melo — Melon.
DIVISION IX. — SHELL NEARLY ENTIRE, LONGITUDINALLY
OR TRANSVERSELY RIBBED AND SUBUMBILICATED.
Reticulata — Reticulated. Cancellata — Latticed.
96 UNIVALVES. — BUCCINUM.
Nassa — Ribbed. Fusca — Tawny.
DIVISION X. — SHELL SPINOUS, OR RUGGED AND NODULOUS.
Turbinellus — Turbinated. Muricata — Prickly.
Capitellum — Ridged. Ceramica — Horned.
Rhinoceros — Rhinoceros. Globosa — Globose.
DIVISION XI. — SHELL WITH A SOMEWHAT PRODUCED
BEAK.
Pyrum — Pear-shaped. Gravis — Solid.
Scolymus — Artichoke.
BUCCINUM.— WHELK.
Animal — a Limax : Shell univalve, spiral, gibbous, aperture
ovate, terminating in a short canal, leaning to the right,
with a retuse beak or projection ; pillar-lip expanded.
THIS genus comprises one hundred and sixty-one spe-
cies, which are remarkable for their great beauty and va-
riety. The Buccinum may be distinguished from the G.
murex, (which it closely resembles), by its beak or canal
being usually much shorter, and inclining to the right in-
stead of the left; it is also generally more gibbous, which
is particularly the case with those species called tuns and
helmets. The tuns are for the most part of a brittle and
light fabric, and although some of them grow to a large
size, yet even then they retain their characteristic fragility
and thinness.
The B. dolium, B. perdix, and the B. galea are the most
common species; the latter of which sometimes exceeds
ten inches in diameter.
UNIVALVES. — BUCCINUM. 97
The helmets, which compose the fourth division, are
nearly allied to the tuns, but are distinguished by having
both their lips, with few exceptions, crenated with strong
articulated teeth; they are also covered with prominent
protuberances or knobs. Among the species of this de-
scription may be enumerated the B. plicatum, B. cornu-
tum, and B. rufum, which is remarkable for its nodulous
belts, and the fiery-red colour of its mouth.
The seventh division contains the Harps, which are consi-
dered the most valuable and beautiful species of the genus :
among these may be particularized the B. harpa and B.
costatum, the latter is commonly called the Many-ridged
Harp, and surpasses all the other varieties in elegance
and rarity. It is found at the Isle of France, and has been
sold for as large a sum as fifty pounds. Of the Scoops,
which form the eighth division, the most common species
are the B. patulum and B. haustrum : there are two varie-
ties of the B. Persicum, both of which are considered rare,
when in fine condition.
Many species of the tenth division resemble in form the
B. undatum or common English whelk, the inhabitant of
which is often eaten. The B. spiratum has its whirls chan-
nelled or spirally grooved ; and the animals of B. scala and
B. lapillus yield a fine durable purple die. The Buccinum
bezoar has its whirls surmounted with rows of foliations;
and is, therefore, generally called the Foliated Bulb.
The last division of Buccina is more distinct than any
hitherto enumerated : it comprises those shells which are
usually known by the name of needles, on account of their
sharp, lengthened, and spiral form; and, though by no
means rare, they are often elegantly marked. The most
common species is the B. maculatum or marline-spike,
which sometimes exceeds nine inches in length : some of
F
98 UNIVALVES. — BUCCINUM.
the other species, as the B. subulatum and B. crenulatum,
are very beautiful.
The B. sinuatum and the B. virgineum are fresh water
species.
The African, American, Indian, European, and South-
ern oceans produce the greater part of the species; many
are found on the British shores ; and also some few in the
Mediterranean.
This genus derives its name from some of its species be-
ing formed like a trumpet.
BUCCINUM— Whelk.
DIVISION I. — SHELL INFLATED, ROUNDED, THIN, SLIGHTLY
TRANSPARENT AND BRITTLE.
FAMILY 1. — Aperture without teeth.
Olearium — Tun. Perdix— Partridge.
Galea — Brown. Dolium — Spotted.
Caudatum — Beaked.
FAMILY 2. — Outer lip toothed.
Sulcosum — Flat-ribbed. Chinense — Chinese.
DIVISION II. — SHELL OVATE, RIBBED, APERTURE RATHER
CONTRACTED, PILLAR-LIP THICKENED AND STRONGLY
WRINKLED, AND OUTER LIP TOOTHED, THICKENED, AND
MARGINATED.
Pomum — ThicJc-lipp'd. Ringens — Grinning.
DIVISION III. — SHELL WITH TUBERCULATED BELTS OR RIBS,
PILLAR-LIP SPREAD, AND BEAK MUCH PRODUCED
AND REFLECTED.
Echinophorum — Tuberculated Nodosum — Belted,
fun. Rugosum — Rugged.
UNIVALVES. — BUCCINUM. 99
DIVISION IV. — SHELL WITH AN EXSERTED REFLECTED BEAK,
PILLAR-LIP SPREAD, AND THE OUTER LIP
UNARMED OUTWARDLY.
FAMILY 1. — With the spire truncated, aperture rather linear,
pillar-lip much spread, the pillar slightly wrinkled, and outer
lip thickened.
Cornutum — Wrinkled Helmet. Flammeum — Triangular.
Plicatum — Plaited. Rufum — Red.
Tuber osum-Zic-zag. Testiculus — Purse.
FAMILY 2. — With the spire rather elevated, pillar-lip thinly
spread, pillar slightly wrinkled, and outer lip thickened.
Decussatum — Decussated. Strigatum — Yellow-striped.
Areola — Draft-board. Saburon — Grey.
Abbreviatum — Shortened.
FAMILY 3. — Resembling the second, except having the pillar-Up
granulated.
Granulatum — Granulated. Undulatum — Undulated.
FAMILY 4. — Resembling the third, but having the pillar-Up granu-
lated and wrinkled.
Inflation — Inflated. * Bilineatum — Smooth-net.
Tessellatum — Tessellated. Cicatricosum — Cicatrix.
FAMILY 5. — With the pillar-lip smooth.
Recurvirostrurn — Recurved beak. Cassis — Helmet.
DIVISION V. — SHELL RESEMBLING THE LAST DIVISION, BUT
THE OUTER LIP, ON THE OUTSIDE, IS MURICATED
AT THE BASE.
FAMILY l.—With the spire short.
Erinaceus — Hedgehog. Fimbria — Bordered.
Biarmatum — Knobbed. Glaucum — Yellow.
Vibex — Agate.
FAMILY 2. — With the spire elevated.
PapiHosum — Prickly-lip. Mutabile — Changeable.
Glans — Thread-girded. Gibbum — Hunchbacked.
F2
100 UNIVALVES. — BUCCINUM.
DIVISION VI. — SHELL WITH THE PILLAR-LIP DILATED AM»
THICKENED, AND APERTURE WIDE.
FAMILY 1. — With the pillar-lip much thickened and dilated.
Arcularia — Broad-lipped. Verrucosum — Warty.
Coronatum — Crowned. Gibbosulum — Gibbous.
*Hepaticum — Small-knobV d. Clathratum — Latticed.
Pullus — Young. Ni veum — Cancellated.
Thersites — Pale-olive. Lima — Acuminated.
FAMILY 2. — With the pillar-Up spread, but not very thick.
Textum — Ttirreted. Plicatulum — Plaited.
*Reticulatum — Reticulated. Piscatorium — Knobbed.
*Ambiguum — Small-plaited. Mauritii — Six-toothed.
*Macula — Spot-lipped. Armillatum — Brawn.
Stolatum — Brown-banded. Nitidulum — Thin-banded-
Ventricosum — Ventricose.
FAMILY 3. — Obtuse, convex, depressed, and smooth.
Neriteum — Nerite- shaped.
DIVISION VII. — SHELL WITH LONGITUDINALLY KEELED,
MUCRONATED RIBS, PILLAR SMOOTH.
Harpa — Harp. Crenatum — Crenated.
Cancallatum — Latticed-harp. Costatum — Many-ridged.
DIVISION VIII. — PILLAR-LIP APPEARING AS IF WORN FLAT,
APERTURE VERY WIDE AND OPEN.
FAMILY 1.— Armed with a subulate tooth at the base.
Monodon — One toothed Scoop. Narval — Unicorn.
Irnbricatum — Imbricated. Cingulatum — Belted.
Crassilabrum — Thick- lipp'd. Rhinoceros — Smooth.
FAMILY 2. — Without the tooth, and the outside striated.
Haustrum— Scoop. Sertwm—Chesnut.
Persicum — Persian. Vexillum— Flag.
FAMILY 3. — With the outside tuberculated.
Patulum— Wide-mouth 'd. tixmastoma— Red-lipped*
Luteostomum— Pallid. Armigerum— Armed.
Dentex— Toothed.
UNIVALVES.—
DIVISION IX. — SHELL WITH SPIRE OBLIQUELY RECURVED,
APERTURE VERY LARGE, OUTER LIP REFLECTED, AND PIL-
LAR-LIP WITH TWO OBSOLETE TEETH AT THE BASE.
Concholepas — Limpet- shap'd.
DIVISION X. — SHELL COARSE, SPIRE ACUTE, APERTURE
OVATE, PILLAR-LIP SMOOTH AND FLATTISH.
*Lapillus — Common Whelk. Sulcatum — Grooved.
Varium — Varied. Smaragdulus — Emerald.
*Undatum — Wave-ribbed. Undosum — Undulated. •
Ciliatum — Ciliated. Affine — Brown-striped.
Solutum — Unequal-ribbed. Fumosum — Smoky.
Porcatum — Rugged. Tranquebaricum — Tranquebar.
Papyraceum — Paper. Cruentatum — Red-spotted.
Otaheitense — Otaheite. Pyrozonias — Double-streaked.
Glaciale — Keel-ridged. Versicolor — Lurid.
Carinatum — Carinated. Lamellosum — Lamellar.
Filosum — Threaded. Lamellatum — Lamellated.
Crispatum — Wrinkled.
DIVISION XI. — SHELL STRONGLY RIBBED TRANSVERSELY.
Orbitum — Globose. Scala — Broad-belted.
Indicum — Indian.
DIVISION XII. — SHELL SUB-GLOBOSE, PONDEROUS, APER-
TURE LARGE, PILLAR-LIP VERY THICK.
Plumbeum — Double-groov'd. Crassum — Thick.
DIVISION XIII. — SHELL WITH THE PILLAR ABRUPT AND
STRONGLY UMBILICATED.
Spiratum — Acute-spire. Zeylanicum — Ceylon.
Eburneum — Spotted. Glabratum — Glossy.
DIVISION XIV. — SHELLS SOMEWHAT POLISHED AND NOT
ENUMERATED IN THE FORMER DIVISIONS.
Tigrinum — Tiger. Testudineum — Tortoise-shell.
T urgitum — Red-spotted. Cochlideum — Indented-spire.
Scutulatutn — Streaked. Catarracta — Long-striped.
'4 $2
Lsevissimum — Polished. Igneum — Red-streaked.
Cyaneum — Blueish. Lyratum — Lyre.
Lseve — Smooth. Plumatum— Painted.
Minute Shells.
Glaberrimum — Smooth. Exile — Slender.
Nucleus — Small. Prserosum — Carious.
*Lineatum — Lineated. *Cinctum — Minute.
Minimum — Lesser.
DIVISION XV. — SHELL ROUNDISH, SPIRE FLAT, WHIRLS
LAMELLATED OR SPINOUS, BEAK PRODUCED AND
UMBILICATED, AND APERTURE LARGE.
Bezoar — Bezoar's. B ulbosum — Bulbous.
DIVISION XVI. — SHELL TURRETED, SUBULATE, AND
SLIGHTLY POLISHED.
FAMILY 1. — Whirls entire.
Maculatum — Spotted Needle. Succinctum — Girdled.
Oculatum — Oculated. Lanceatum — Lancet.
Subulatum — Awl-shap'd. Murinum — Mouse- coloured.
Felinum — Cat. Hastatum — Javelin.
Vittatum — Ribbon. Sinuatum — Twisted.
Digitale — Bluish- banded. Bifasciatum — Two- banded.
Concinnum — Belt-spotted. Radiatum — Radiated.
Cinereum — Steel-grey. Virgineum — Fresh-water.
*Acicula— Minute-pointed.
FAMILY 2. — Whirls divided by a transverse line or furrow.
Crenulatum — Crenulated. Strigilatum — Strigilated.
Hecticum — Hectic. Duplicatum — Double-whirl.
Geminum — Divided. Acus — Needle.
Proximatum — Glossy. Dimidiatum — Orange 8f White.
Monile — Necklace. Pertusum — Hollow-dotted.
UNIVALVES. — STROMBUS. 103
STROMBUS.— WINGED OR CLAW-SHELL.
Animal — a Limax; Shell univalve, spiral; aperture much
dilated; the lip expanding, and produced into a groove
leaning to the left.
THE distinguishing character of this genus, of which
there are forty-six species, consists in the position of its
beak, which inclines to the left; but as the younger shells
are sometimes wholly destitute of any beak, a confusion
with many other genera is often difficult to be avoided.
The Strombi seem to have a propensity to extend their
outer lip, either into the form of an expanded wing, hence
called alatse or winged shells, or to continue it into long
and pointed claws: but these appearances are only mani-
fest in adult shells.
The most prominent species of the division which has the
lips terminated by claws, are the following : S. chiragra,
S. scorpius, S. lambis, and S. millepeda. The number of
claws in the different species varies from six to ten, but
the S. pes-peticani has only four. In some species they
are nearly straight, and often smooth, while in others they
are very much curved, and covered with waved nodules.
The growth of these shells is worthy of notice. It has al-
ready been stated, that the very young shells have no ap-
pearance of claws, which first shew themselves in the form
of short and open spouts; when the shells are farther ad-
vanced in growth, they assume the shape they are to retain,
but are still thin, hollow, and imperfectly closed ; and it is
only in the adults that they become solid, and have a thick,
strong, and horn-like appearance.
The S. oniscus, in the sixth division, is totally destitute
of a winged termination; and the S. fasciattis, S. pugilis,
104 UNIVALVES. — STROMBUS.
and S. lentiginosus, in the second division, exhibit on-
ly faint indications of that character: but in the S. gallus,
S. auris-Dianae, S. latissimus, (a very rare species), and S.
gigas, it is remarkably prominent. Some other species
have nearly the same peculiarity: as the S. epidromis, the
S. vittatus, S. canarium, &c. These latter species never
grow to any magnitude; but some of the former, as the S.
latissimus and S. gigas, frequently attain a considerable
size.
The S. luhuanus, S. gibberulus, &c. have some of their
whirls very gibbous, and on that account they are often
called Pouter-alati. Many of these are extremely beauti-
ful, having their mouths of a scarlet, pink, or orange colour,
and the interior of their shells of a rich blue, purple, or
yellow colour.
The turreted species, which constitute the shells of the
fourth and fifth divisions, are distinguished into two
classes: the one having a longitudinal fissure extending
from the aperture to the summit; and the other, by hav-
ing a lengthened spire, resembling the Murices. Of the lat-
ter division, the two varieties of the S. fusus are character-
istic examples; one variety has a short subulate beak,
but the other, usually called the long-beaked spindle, is
much more tapering and delicate, and its beak, when per-
fect, is nearly as long as the rest of the shell. It comes
from the Straits of Sunda, and is considered one of the great
rarities in collections. Of the fifth division, the S. tuber-
culatus; S. palustris, from the meadows or savannahs of
the Indian ocean ; and S. ater, from the fens of Amboyna
— are sufficient examples: it may be observed, that the
three last are land species, and are characterized by hav-
ing their whirls more or less beset with sharp knobs or
prickly spines.
The African, Indian, American, and European oceans
UNIVALVES. — STROMBUS. 105
produce many species of this genus; and the Mediterra-
nean, Red, and Arctic seas, only a few.
STROMBUS— Winged or Claw-shell.
DIVISION I. — SHELL WITH LINEAR SEGMENTS, OR CLAWS AT
THE MARGIN OF THE OUTER LIP.
Chiragra — DeviFs-claw. Purpureus — Purple-mouth.
Scorpius — Scorpion. Elongatus — Lengthened.
Lambis — Spider. Truncatus — Truncated.
Millepeda — Millepede. *Pes-pelicani — Pelican' s-foot.
DIVISION II. — SHELL WITH THE OUTER LIP MUCH EX-
PANDED.
FAMILY 1. — With the margin of the outer lip thickened or lobed.
Gigas — Giant. Papilio — Butterfly.
Accipiter — Heavy. Auris-Dianaa — Diana? s-ear.
Gailus — Plough. Pacifica — Pacific.
Tricornis — Thwe-horn'd. Granulatus — Granulated.
Pugilis — Thick-spin' d. Polyfasciatus — Many banded.
Fasciatus — Banded. Luhuanus — Luhoe.
Lentiginosus — Pink-lipped. Canarium — Partridge.
FAMILY 2. — With the outer lip curved inwards.
Latissimus — Broad-winged. Laciniatus — Sinuated.
FAMILY 3. — Spire elevated, and outer lip rounded and short.
Vittatus — Ribbon. Epidromis— Mainsail.
Sulcatus — Sulcated.
FAMILY 4. — With both lips pointed, and attached to the whirls of
the spire.
Marginatus — Margined. Minimus — Least,
Accin^tus — Girdled.
DIVISION III. — SHELL SMOOTH OR PLAITED, OUTER LIP
STRIATED WITHIN, AND BUT SLIGHTLY EXPANDED.
Gibberulus — Pouter. Urceus — Pitcher.
F3
106 UNIVALVES. — MUREX.
Erythrinus — Nodulous. Samar — Samar.
Dentatus— Toothed.
DIVISION IV. — SHELL TURRETED, WITH A LONGITUDINAL
FISSURE EXTENDING FROM THE APERTURE
TO THE SUMMIT.
Fissus— Slit. Fissurella— Fissure.
DIVISION V. — SHELL TURRETED, WITH A VERY LONG SPIRE.
FAMILY 1. — The aperture ending in a long beak, and the outer
lip toothed.
Fusus — Spindle. Unicornis— Unicorn.
FAMILY 2. — Without the beak, and the aperture not toothed.
Tuberculatus — Tuberculated. Auritus — Eared.
Palustris — Marsh. Lividus — Livid.
Ater — Black. *Costatus— Ribbed.
DIVISION VI. — SHELL OBOVATE, WITH TRANSVERSE NODU-
LOUS BELTS, PILLAR-LIP GRANULATED, AND THE OUTER
LIP THICKENED AND TOOTHED WITHIN.
Onlscus — Wood-louse.
MUREX. — ROCK OR TRUMPET-SHELL.
Animal — a Limax: Shell univalve, spiral, rough, with
membranaceous sutures; aperture oval, ending in an en-
tire, straight, or slightly ascending canal.
THE most prominent character which distinguishes the
one hundred and seventy-two species of the Murex from
those of the two preceding genera, consists in the beak,
which inclines neither to the right nor left, but is almost
invariably straight and very much produced, sometimes
turning a little upwards.
UNIVALVES. — MUREX. 107
The Murices are generally of an irregular form, arising
from their surfaces being usually covered with spines,
knobs, striae, or foliations. One division is peculiar for
the uncommon length of beak, which most of its species
are remarked for; the principal is M. tribulus, of which
there are two varieties, the common called the thorny
woodcock, and the rarer, after the French, peigne de Venus,
or Venus's comb, which is not only considered a rarity, but
is perhaps one of the most elegant shells of the genus ; it
is most beautifully adorned with thin and delicate spines,
disposed longitudinally in three regular rows. To this
same division belong also the M. cornutus and M. bran-
daris; the former grows to a considerable size, and is by
no means common.
The third division includes those species that have a
much shorter beak, and are more foliated than spinous ;
such are the M. trunculus, M. pomum, and M. radix; the
latter grows to a considerable size and is much valued; its
shell is beset with numerous rows of frondose, black, un-
dulate spines, which being contrasted with opaque-white
renders it an object of great beauty. It also comprises
those species which are commonly called Triplices, or more
properly Purpurae, as the animals inhabiting most of the
shells of this division possess the property of affording a rich
purple juice or liquid; from this circumstance the Avhole
genus has by some authors been called Purpura. The shells
have their sutures composed of crisped foliations and acute
angular ramifications; among those best known are the
pink and yellow-mouthed varieties of the M. saxatilis, which
are exceedingly rare and beautiful. The number of rows
in the foliated sutures differs considerably, some (as the
M. ramosus, &c.) have only three, the M. scorpio has four,
the M. saxatilis five, and the M. radix has nine.
The next division is composed of the species that have
108 UNIVALVES. — MUREX.
their sutures thick, protuberant, and rounded; such are
the M. rana, M. lampas, M. lotorium, and M. femorale ;
the outer lip of the latter shell is frequently imitated in the
borders or rims of massy silver plate, hence called the
gadroori border.
In the species of the sixth division the form is more ab-
breviated and gibbous, they are also more or less spinous,
and without a manifest beak : as in the M. ricinus, M. hip-
pocastanum, and the varieties of the M. neritoideus ; most
of which have rows of black tubercles and spines; some
having purple, and others yellow mouths.
The ninth division of Murices is composed of those shells
which have a long, straight, subulate beak, and unarmed
with spines: such are the M. colus, of which there are
many large and beautiful varieties; M. Babylonius, &c.
The M. Babylonius, and the other towers, have a small fis-
sure or incision on the extremity of the outer lip, close to
the termination of the first whirl, a peculiarity solely con-
fined to these species. The reverse variety of the M. ficus,
called the M. perversus, is a very rare species. The M.
antiquus is also sometimes reversed. The animal of the
M. despectus is often eaten, but is more generally used as
a bait for cod and ray. The M. Tritonis, which is an in-
habitant of the Mediterranean, Indian, and South Seas, is
used by the natives of New Zealand as a musical shell, and
by the Africans and many nations of the east as a military
horn. It sometimes exceeds two feet in length.
The shells of the last division are tapering and subulate,
and have a short beak. Among them may be noticed the
M. vertagus, M. aluco, &c.
Of the rarer species may be mentioned the M. regius,
M. prismaticus, M. stramineus, M. radix, and M. aruanus.
The numerous species and varieties of the Murices are
from the following places : Pulo Gondore, Guinea, Senegal,
UNIVALVES. — MUREX. 109
Straits of Magellan ; the European, Northern, and Southern
seas; India, the Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Atlantic.
This genus derives its name from many of its species be-
ing rough, like the sharp crags of a rock.
MUREX— Rock or Trumpet- shell.
DIVISION I. — SHELL SPINOUS, WITH A PRODUCED BEAK.
FAMILY 1. — With three varices.
Tribulus— Thorny Woodcock. Scolopax — Thornfy Snipe.
Motacilla — Nightingal
FAMILY 2. — With seven varices.
Cornutus — Horned Snipe. Brandaris — Short-beak' d Snipe.
DIVISION II. — SHELL WITH A PRODUCED BEAK SIMILAR TO
THE FIRST DIVISION, BUT NOT SPINOUS.
Haustellum — Snipe. Spirillus — Blunt-tipped.
DIVISION III. — SHELL FOLIATED, WITH A SHORT BEAK.
FAMILY 1. — With three varices.
Ramosus — Branched. Lingua — Sheep' s-tongue.
Foliatus — Foliated. Tripterus — Subtriangular,
Triqueter — Three-warted.
FAMILY 2. — With more than three varices*
Scorpio — Scorpion. Miliaris — Scabrous.
Rota— Wheel. Radix— Root.
Saxatilis — Endive. Melanomathos — Black-spined.
Trunculus — Tyrian-dye. Lamellosus — Lamellar.
Rosarium — Rosary. Clathratus — Ribbed.
Pomum — Apple-shap'd. *Erinaceus — Rough-ridg'd.
Regius — Royal. Scala — Ladder.
DIVISION IV. — SHELL WITH THICK PROTUBERANT ROUNDED
VARICES.
FAMILY 1. — With two opposite varices.
R ana— Frog. Crassus — Thick-frog.
1 10 UNIVALVES. — MUREX.
Spinosus — Spiny-frog. Lampas — Granulated.
*Gyrinus — Whirled. Scrobilator — Violet-throated.
Bufonius — Toad-shap'd. Reticularis — Reticulated.
FAMILY 2.— -With two subalternate varices.
Argus — Argus. Candisatus — Mottled.
Olearium — Oil-jar. Maculosus — Spotted.
Rubecula — Footman. Spengleri — Spengler's.
Femorale — Triangular. Pyrum — Pear.
Lotorium — Angulated. Clavator — Club-shap'd.
Pileare — Nodulous. Caudatus — CaudatecL
Dolarium — Narrow- belt.
FAMILY 3. — With a single varix.
Parthenopus — Tawny-yellow. Clandestinus — Double-lipp'd.
Cutaceus — Rough-skin. Lyratus — Lyre-shaped.
DIVISION V. — SHELL WITH UNEQUALLY GIBBOUS WHIRLS,
DECUSSATED RIBS, AND THE APERTURE SURROUNDED
BY A THIN DILATED MEMBRANE.
Anus — Grimace Whelk. Mulus — Mule.
DIVISION VI. — SHELL SOMEWHAT SPINOUS, AND WITHOUT
A BEAK.
Ricinus — Spur. Hippocastanum-jf/orse-c/i'es?^.
Nodus — Chesnut. Sacellum — Corded.
Neritoideus — Mulberry. Nodatus — Knobbed.
Finibriatus — Seal-skin. Lacerus — Carinated.
Hystrix — Porcupine. Virgatus — Nodulous.
Mancinella — Mancinella. Columbarium — White- belted.
Senticosus — Cancellated.
DIVISION VII. — SHELL NODULOUS, OR LONGITUDINALLY
PLAITED, WITH A SHORT BEAK.
Plicatus — Plaited. Undatus — Waved.
Morbosus — Diseased. Fiscellum — Short-beak' d.
Consul — Ventricose. Dubius — Doubtful.
Fenestratus — Latticed.
UNIVALVES. — MUREX. J 1 1
DIVISION VIII. — SHELL OVATE, APERTURE WIDE, INNER
LIP THICKENED AND SPREAD, OUTER LIP
THICK AND UNDULATED.
Stramineus — Straw-colour 'd. Australia — Southern.
DIVISION IX. — SHELL WITH A LONG, STRAIGHT, SUBULATE
BEAK, UNARMED.
FAMILY 1. — Turreted, outer lip having a notch at the summit.
Babyloriius — Tower-of- Babel. Virgineus — Virgin-tower.
Clavatulus — Crowned-tower. Javanus — Javanese.
Gibbosus — Gibbous. Tornatus — White-tower.
FAMILY 2. — With the column plaited.
Tulipa — Tulip. Polygonus — Many- angled.
Nassa — Rough. Infundibulum — Funnel- shap'd.
Amplustre — American-flag. Lancea — Lanceolate.
Trapezium — Striped-tower. Ocellatus — Eyed.
Craticulatus — Plaited.
FAMILY 3. — With the miter lip entire, and the column smooth.
Colus — Spindle [ated. Canaliculatus — Channelled.
Striatulus — Transversely-stri- Carica — Keeled.
Versicolor — Changeable. Perversus — Reversed.
Verrucosus — Warty. Ternatanus — Ternate.
Aruanus — Aru-trumpet. Pardalis — 'Leopard.
Tuba — Trumpet. Maroccensis — Morocco.
Cariosus — Carious.
DIVISION X. — SHELL WITH THE SPIRE RATHER DEPRESSED,
APERTURE DILATED, NEARLY THE LENGTH OF
THE SHELL, AND BEAK SHORT.
Melongena — Open-mouth. Candidum — White.
Calcaratus — Brownish-white. Corona — Crowned.
Ficus — Fig-shap'd. Morio — Moor.
Spadiceum — Lineated. Pugilinus— Reddish- brown.
Umbilicatum — Umbilicated. Cochlidium — "Brown-streaked.
Harpa — Harp.
UNIVALVES. — MUREX.
DIVISION XI. — SHELL OBLONG VENTRICOSE, APERTURE DI-
LATED AND OVATE, SPIRE PRODUCED, AND BEAK SHORT.
*Antiquus — Antiquated. *Bamffius — Bamff.
Magellanicus — Magellanic. * Gracilis — Elegant.
Norwegicus — Norwegian. *Attenuatus — Lengthened.
Fornicatus — Arched. *Nebula — Clouded.
Despectus — Despised. *Costatus-— Ribbed.
*Subantiquatus — Angulated. *Proximus — Many-ribbed.
Tritonis — Triton. *Septangularis — Seven-sided.
Nerei — Musical. *Turricula — Turreted.
Vulpinus — Fox. *Rufus — Red.
Pusio — Wreath. *Sinuosus — Sinuated.
*Corneus — Slender-horn. *Linearis — Lineated.
Lineatus — Lined. *Purpureus — Purple.
Lignarius — Woody. *Muricatus — Thorny.
Syracusanus — Syracuse. *Minutissimus — Fery -small.
Perron — Shelving. Arenosus — Sea-sand.
Prismaticus — Prismatic. Scriptus — Written.
DIVISION XII. — TURRETED AND SUBULATE, WITH A VERY
SHORT BEAK.
Obeliscus — Chinese-obelisk. Radula — Rayed.
Vertagus — Curved- beak. Marginatus — Margined.
Plicatulus — White-plaited. Serratus — Serrated.
Aluco — Caterpillar. Asper — Rough- grain'd.
Tuberosus — Knobbed. Granulatus — Grained.
Adansoni — Adanson's. Sulcatus — Grooved.
Clava — Club-shaped. Literatus — Lettered.
Uncinatus — Grapling. Hexagonus — Six-ribbed.
Atratus — Blackish. *Reticulatus — Reticulated.
Alucoides — Marbled. *Tubercularis — Tuberculated.
Ebeninus — Deep-black. *Adversus — Left-handed.
Fuscatus — Clouded. *Subulatus — Awl-shap'd.
Torulosus — Ringed. Decollates — Decapitated.
UNIVALVES. — TROCHUS. 113
TROCHUS— TOP-SHELL.
slnimat — a Limax: Shell univalve, spiral, more or less co-
nic; aperture somewhat angular or rounded, the upper
side transverse and contracted; pillar placed obliquely.
THIS genus contains one hundred and twenty-nine spe-
cies. The leading characteristic consists in its conical
shape, which prevails with few exceptions throughout the
genus ; some, however, are so nearly allied to the Turbo,
that frequent mistakes arise in their classification.
Among those Trochi which have their pillar perforated
or umbilicated, may be mentioned the T. Niloticus, T. ma-
culatus, T. perspectivus, T. hybridus, and T. Pharaonis.
Though some of this genus have their surfaces almost
smooth, yet the greater number are covered with knobs,
spines, tuberculations, or undulations, of which the T. so-
laris and T. imperialis, are striking examples : the former
has its margin beset with long spines, placed at regular
distances, resembling, when the shell is perfect, the rays
of the sun as represented in carved work : it has also a
most beautiful gold colour, which occasionally shines forth
through the ochreous surface of the shell, and of course
adds materially to the similitude. The T. imperialis is
generally of a dull olive colour, but there is a rare variety
of it which has a pinkish cast, and is known by the name
of the Pink Sun : they are both from the South seas.
Of the imperforated species, the most characteristic are
the T. vestiarius, T. labeo, and T. tuber ; the latter of
which very much resembles a Turbo.
The T. iris, when uncoated, is celebrated for the splen-
did metallic lustre which illumines its surface, and for the
UNIVALVES. — TROCHUS.
vivid play of iridescent colours which it exhibits when held
in different positions and lights.
The T. Cookii, from Cook's Bay, has its aperture closed
with a horny lid or operculum, to secure the inhabitant
when retired within its shell. This appendage is most
frequent among the Univalve genera; it is affixed to
the animal, which, as it retreats into the spiral whirls of its
shell, draws the operculum in along with it, to a particular
situation of the aperture, where, from the extreme accura-
cy of its adjustment, it perfectly closes the orifice, and
thereby forms a complete barrier against any outward at-
tacks.
The operculum varies in shape according to the form of
the mouth it has to close : in some instances, it is elongated,
and has a horny appearance; in others, it is circular, and
of a very compact testaceous substance ; some are perfect-
ly smooth, and others strongly granulated.
The T. conchyliophorus is a very curious and remark-
able species; for it is invariably covered with other sub-
stances, strongly adhering to the whirls of the shell.
Of this species there are two distinct varieties: one is
called the Conchologist, from its being loaded with frag-
ments of shells, and other testaceous substances ; and the
other is very properly named the Mineralogist, as its bur-
then consists of stones, earths, pebbles, ores, &c. When
the former variety is loaded with corals only, it is called
the Zoologist or Coral-carrier. They are considered, when
heavily laden, as rarities.
Some species of Trochi are much elongated, and great-
ly resemble screw or needle shells. Unlike the rest of the
genus, they have an exserted pillar; and, when placed on
their base, they fall on one side. The most prominent
species are the T. telescopium and T. dolabratus.
The greater part of the Trochi present a brilliant mo-
UNIVALVES. — TROCHUS. 1 1 5
ther-of-pearl appearance when uncoated ; others have only
their aperture pearly or silvery j and a few exhibit a bronze-
like hue.
There are several reverse varieties of Trochi : the prin-
cipal are — T. perversus, T. undulatus, T. ventricosus, T.
annulatus, and T. pusillus; the latter of which is found
within larger shells, in the sands of India.
The T. flumineus is a river species, and the T. horten-
sis is an inhabitant of the gardens in warmer climates.
The T. terrestris is also a land species, and frequents the
mountains of Cumberland.
The following are the places which yield specimens of
the Trochi: viz. Asia, Africa, America, Friendly Isles,
New Zealand, Red Sea, Mediterranean, the European and
British seas, &c.
TROCHUS— Top- Shell.
DIVISION I. — SHELL UMBILICATED, ERECT.
FAMILY 1. — With the pillar and umbilicus smooth.
Niloticus — Large-marble. Fanulum — Pagoda.
Conus — Conic. Strigosus — Black-lipp'd.
Spinosus — Thorny. Dubius — Doubtful.
Jujubinus — Mottled. Depressus — Depressed.
Concavus — Concave. Lsevis — Smooth.
Vernalis — Green. Groenlandicus — Greenland.
Conspersus — Poppy. *Magus — Tuberculated.
Ochroleucus — Whitish- brown. Variegatus — Variegated.
Stellatus — Starred. Afer — Grey-marble.
Spengleri — Spengler's. Muricatus — Prickly.
Costatus — Ribbed. Roseus — Rose-colour' d.
Insequalis — Unequal. *Patholatus — Tumid.
Regius — Royal. Scaber — Rough.
Verrucosus — Warty. Quadratus — Square-spotted.
Radiatus— Radiated. Croceus — Saffron-colour' d.
Viridis— Green, Varius — Varied.
1 16 UNIVALVES. — TROCHUS.
*Obliquatus— UmUlicated. Solaris— Sun.
Cinerarias — A shy- colour' d. Inermis — Short-spined.
Neritoideus — Reddish-colour1 d. Imperialis — Imperial.
Albidus — White. Conchyliophorus — Carrier.
Vittatus — Ribbon. Tectum — Arch-lipp'd.
Divaricatus — Divaricated. Pumilio — Dwarf.
Fuscatus — Brown. *Terrestris — Land.
Umbilicaris — Obliquely-rayed. Bidens — Double-tooth'' d.
Cinereus — Cinereous. Fragilis — Brittle.
Fasciatus — Banded. Carinatus — Keeled.
Planus — Flat. Flumineus — River.
FAMILY 2. — With pillar toothed or plaited, and umbilicus
smooth.
Maculatus — Spotted. Cruciatus — Cross-rayed.
Alveare — Bee-hive. Modulus — Keel-whirVd.
Tentorium — Pavilion. Declivis— Egyptian.
Agrestis — Rustic. Viridulus — Necklace-grained.
Niger — Black. Perlatus — Pearly.
FAMILY 3. — With pillar smooth, and umbilicus toothed or cre-
Cylindraceus — Sub-conical. Carneus — Flesh-colour' d.
Areola — Red square-spotted.
FAMILY 4. — With pillar and umbilicus crenated.
Pharaonis — Strawberry. Guineensis — Guinea.
Corallinus — Coral-bead. Urbanus — Purple-striped.
FAMILY 5. — Shell depressed, with the umbilicus large, pervious,
and crenated, in which the course of the whirls is strongly
marked.
Perspectivus — Staircase. Hybridus — Mongrel.
Perspectivunculus — Small-do. Stramineus — Straw-colour' d.
Infundibuliformis — Funnel- Indicus — Indian,
formed.
DIVISION II. — SHELL IMPERFORATE, ERECT.
FAMILY 1.— With the pillar smooth.
Grandinatus — Studded. Tuber — Large-mottled.
UNIVALVES. — TROCHUS. 117
Melanastomus — Black-throated. Purpurascens — Purple.
*Stnatus — Striated. Imbricatus — Imbricated.
*Minutus — Crimson-tip. Caelatus — Scaly.
Punctulatus — Rose-colour' d. Gibberosus — Olive-green.
Conulus — Conical. Virgatus — Rose-striped.
*Zizyphinus — Livid. Cookii — Cook's.
*Papillosus — Granulated. Iris — Iris.
Undatus — Undulated. Elegans — Elegant.
Granatum — Tiger. Notatus — Marked.
Virgineus — Ringed. *Ziczac — Ziczag.
Diaphanus — Thin. Obtusus — Blunt. >
Selectus — Red- and-white. Crocatus — Saffron-colour' d.
Hortensis — Garden.
FAMILY 2. — With the pillar toothed.
Labeo — Double-lipp'd. Turbinatus — Turbinated.
Asper — Rugged. Argyrostomus — Silver-mouth' d.
Quadricarinatus— Four-keeled. Merula — Chinese.
Tessellatus — Tessellated. *Crassus — Heavy.
Americanus — American.
FAMILY 3. — With the pillar twisted.
Mauritianus — Great-tooth' d. Pyramis — Obelisk.
Fenestratus — Small-tooth' d. Dentatus — Sugar-loaf.
FAMILY 4. — Shell convex, smooth, with a thick vitreous matter
[which covers the centre of the base.
Vestiarius — Flattened.
DIVISION III. — SHELL TAPERING, WITH THE PILLAR EXSEKT-
ED, AND THE SHELL FALLING TO ONE SIDE WHEN
PLACED UPON ITS BASE.
FAMILY 1. — With pillar twisted.
Telescopium — Telescope. Terebellus — Little-augur.
Dolabratus — Zebra.
FAMILY 2. — Pillar straight.
Minute Shells.
Punctatus — Dotted. Striatellus — Violet-lip^ d.
118 UNIVALVES. — TURBO.
Reversed Shells.
Perversus — Reversed. Ventricosus — Bellied.
Pusillus — Minute. Annulatus — Annulated.
Undulatus — Waived. Lunaris — Hor n- colour' d.
TURBO.— WREATH.
Animal — a Limax : Shell univalve, spiral, solid : aperture
contracted, orbicular, entire.
THERE are no less than one hundred and sixty-seven
species of this beautiful genus; which are, for the most part,
solid and ponderous shells, and many of them of a pearly
nature when uncoated. They resemble the Trochus in
form, but may easily be distinguished by their suborbicu-
lar aperture.
The first division has the pillar margin of the aperture
dilated, and the pillar imperforate. Among the leading
species may be enumerated the T. obtusatus, T. neritoides,
and the T. littoreus, or common periwinkle, a well known
British shell: its fish, when boiled, is not unfrequently
eaten. It is an inhabitant of most European shores; and
it is said of them by sailors, that, if seen crawling high up
the rocks, it is an indication of the approach of stormy
weather; but if, on the contrary, they descend, a calm
may be expected.
The next division consists of the solid and imperforated
species: among the principal are the T. petholatus, T.
chrysostomus, T. pagodus, T. calcar, and T. smaragdus ; to
which may be added, the T. cochlus, T. cornutus, T. mar-
moratus, and T. olearius, the two latter of which sometimes
attain a large size.
UNIVALVES. — TURBO. 119
The varieties of the T. phasianus have been exceedingly
rare : — there is no other species in this genus which pre-
sents so much beauty and diversity as the Pheasants. They
are found at Van Dieman's Land, and other islands of the
South Seas.
The next variation consists in the pillar of some species
being perforated or umbilicated. The T.pica (as being
the most known and easiest procured) will be the best to
refer to as an example. The T. margaritaceus and the
T. argyrostomus also belong to this division.
Another division is composed of those species that are
less solid, and cancellated. The wentle-trap (from the
German, windle-treppe, or winding-staircase), one of the
most beautiful as well as the rarest of the genus, will suf-
fice to exhibit the peculiarities of this division. The true
wentle-trap is a turbinated or spiral conical shell, varying
in size from a quarter of an inch to upwards of two inches.
The small and young shells are remarkably thin, brittle,
and transparent, and generally possess more colour, (usual-
ly of a yellowish or pinkish white), than those farther ad-
vanced. The form is extremely elegant; its whirls, which
are always gibbous or inflated, are beset, at regular dis-
tances, with numerous, elevated, carinated, suboblique lon-
gitudinal, continued ribs, evidently the remains of former
mouths. In very young shells, the ribs are of a blueish
semipellucid appearance, and have the interstices of a deep
brown cast, occasioned, probably, by a thin epidermis, ra-
ther than a local colouring. There are said to be two va-
rieties of the real wentle-trap, one having only eight
whirls, and perforated ; the other having ten whirls, and
imperforated : they also inhabit different places ; one, it is
said, comes from Barbary, the other from Coromandel.
This species possesses a striking peculiarity, which con-
120 UNIVALVES. — TURBO.
sists in its being entirely destitute of a columella to con-
nect its whirls; a circumstance so opposed to the regular
structure of all other turbinated shells, must have, of course,
created considerable doubt as to its classification, and some
authors have even placed it among the serpulae or worm-
shells.
The false wentle-trap, T. clathrus, is a very common
shell, and is easily distinguished from the true, by its be-
ing much more elongated and not umbilicated ; the whirls
also are more closely connected. There are three varieties
of this species : one is pellucid, with very thin ribs ; the other
has its lip produced into a beak ; and the third is spotted
or dotted with brown. They are found in the European
and Indian seas, in great abundance, from half an inch
to two inches in length. It is said, that the ancients ex-
tracted a purple dye from the animal inhabiting these shells.
The shells of the ninth division are commonly called
needles or screws ; their shape is that of a well proportion-
ed spire, with thirty or forty whirls gradually tapering or
diminishing from the base to the apex, and there ending
in a very acute point. The shells of this form are distin-
guished from the similar species among the Strombi and
Buccina, by their having a circular or orbicular mouth.
Of the tapering or elongated Turbines may be mention-
ed the T. imbricatus, T. replicatus, T. acutangulus, T. du-
plicatus, and T. terebra, which are the principals of the di-
vision.
The T. ulvae is found adhering to the ulva lactuca. The
T, perversus has its whirls contrary, and dwells among
moss on old walls in most parts of Europe, as does also
the T. muscorum. Among the fresh-water species the T.
nautileus stands conspicuous ; it is often affixed to plants
in stagnant waters.
The species from the ocean are principally from the
UNIVALVES.— TURBO. 121
South seas; some are from the American and African
oceans, and the Indian and Northern seas; and several
species are to be met with in the Mediterranean, and Euro-
pean seas.
TURBO— Wreath.
DIVISION I. — SHELL IMPERFORATE, AND THE PILLAR-LIP
FLAT.
FAMILY 1. — With a smooth exterior.
Obtusatus — Blunt. *Rudis — Pale-brown.
Neritoides — Nerite- shaped. Punctatus — Punctured.
Nicobaricus — Nicobar. *Petrseus — Small-rock.
Nigerrimus — Black. . *Fulgidus — Bronze-banded.
FAMILY 2.— With the exterior striated or ribbed.
*Littoreus — Periwinkle. *Crassior — Coarse.
*Tenebrosus — Chocolate. *Jugosus — Lineated.
Ethiops — Black and white.
DIVISION II. — SHELL IMPERFORATE, SOLID.
FAMILY 1. — With a smooth exterior.
Personatus — Convex. Cidaris — Turban.
Petholatus — Serpent' s-skin. Helicinus — Green and purple.
Imperialis — Imperial.
FAMILY 2. — With the exterior striated.
*Cimex — Bug. Cochlus — Cameleopard.
*Calathiscus — Cancellated. Smaragdus — Green.
FAMILY 3. — With the exterior granulated.
Castaneus — Chesnut. Crenulatus — Crenulated. '
Papyraceus — Paper.
FAMILY 4. — With the exterior nodulous.
Trochiformis — White- grain' d. Sarmaticus — Large-knobbed.
Marmoratus — Marbled. Olearius — Large-keeled,
C oronatus — Coronated.
122 UNIVALVES. — TURBO.
FAMILY 5. — With the exterior ribbed or grooved.
Canaliculatus — Grooved. Sparverius — Pearly -mouth1 d.
Setosus — Leopard. Spenglerianus — Spengler's.
FAMILY 6. — With the exterior somewhat spinous.
Chrysostomus — Golden-mouth'' d. Aculeatus — Painted.
Tectum-persicum — Little pa- Stellatus — Spined.
goda. *Armatus — Armed.
Pagodus — Pagoda. Rugosus — Rugged.
Calcar — Spur. Cornutus — Large-horned.
Stellaris — Starred. Radiatus — Radiated.
Moltklanus — Moltkian's.
Minute Shells.
*Semicostatus — Ribbed. *Labiosus — Lipped.
*Ruber — Red. *Ulvae — Sea-weed.
*Vitreus— Glassy. *Ventrosus — Bellied.
*Punctura — Punctured. *Subumbilicatus — Yellow.
*Arenarius — Sand. *Cingillus — Girdled.
*Unifasciatus — Sanded. *Interruptus — Streaked.
*Nivosus — White. *Semistriatus — Semi-striated.
Albulus — Pellucid.
DIVISION TIL — SHELL UMBILICATED AND SOLID.
FAMILY 1. — With the umbilicus toothed.
Pica — Magpie. Nodulosus — Nodulous.
FAMILY 2. — The umbilicus urithout teeth.
Dentatus — Toothed. Diadema — Diadem.
Muricatus — Prickly. Undulatus — Waved.
*Auricularis — Eared. Argyrostomus — Silver-mouth.
*Vinctus — Brown-banded. Margaritaceus — Pearly.
*Quadrifasciatus — Four-banded. Porphyrites — Porphyry.
Sanguineus — Scarlet. Mespilus — Medlar.
Atratus — Black-grained. Granulatus — Granulated.
Anguis — Snake. Cinereus — Ash-colour1 d,
Torquatus — Thready.
UNIVALVES. — TURBO. 123
DIVISION IV. — SHELL DEPRESSED, FOLIATED, SPINOUS OR NO-
DULOUS, AND UMBILICUS LARGE, PERVIOUS,
AND ARMED WITHIN.
Delphinus — Dolphin, Exasperatus — Granulated.
Distortus — Distorted.
DIVISION V. — CANCELLATED.
FAMILY 1. — UmUlicated.
Scalaris — Wentle-trap.
FAMILY 2. — Imperf orated.
Principalis — Many-ribbed. Lacteus — Milky.
Clathrus — Latticed. Pulcher — Beautiful.
*Clathratulus — Little. . Ambiguus — Doubtful.
Minute Shells.
*Elegantissimus — Elegant. *Coniferus — Marginated.
Simillimus — Similar. *Denticulatus— Toothed.
•Parvus— Guernsey. *Arcuatus — Margined.
*Striatulus— Wrinkled. *Striatus — Striated.
*Reticulatus — Netted. *Costatus — Ribbed.
*Bryereus — Bryer's. *Unicus — Convex.
Indistinctus — Indistinct.
DIVISION VI. — SHELL WITH SUBCYLINDRICAL WHIRLS, SIMILAR
TO THE LAST DIVISION, BUT NOT CANCELLATED.
FAMILY 1 . — Umbilicated.
Crenellus — Crenated. Limbatus — Shouldered.
* T hermalis — Fresh- water. Carinatus — Keeled.
Labeo — White-lipp' d. Separatista — Three-keeled.
Ligatus — Ligature. Niveus — Snowy.
Foliaceus — Leafy. Helicoides — Brown-ziczag.
FAMILY 2. — Imperforate.
Crenatus — Crenated. Lincinus — Green-and-purple.
Elegans — Elegant. Lunulatus — Moon-spotted.
o2
UNIVALVES. — TURBO.
DIVISION VII. — SHELL OBLONO, GLOSSY, BEAUTIFULLY
MARKED WITH VARIOUS COLOURS, AND
APERTURE SUBOVATE.
Phasianus — Pheasant. Inflatus — Inflated.
*Pullus— Painted.
DIVISION VIII.— SHELL SUBCYLINDRICAL, OBTUSE AT BOTH
ENDS, AND APERTURE SEMI-OVATE.
FAMILY 1. — Aperture toothed.
Uva— Berry. *Tridens— Three-tooth1 d.
Mumia — Double- tooth' d. * Juniper! — Juniper.
Alvearia — Whife-mouth'd. *Muscorum — Moss.
Quinquedentatus — Five-toothed, *Sexdentatus — Six-tooth' d.
*Carychium — Minute- tooth' d.
Reversed Shells.
*Bidens — Double-toothed. *Nigricans — Black.
*Laminatss — Laminated. *Labiatus — Lipped.
*Biplicatus — Double-plaited. *Perversus — Reversed.
Corrugatus — Wrinkled. Quadridens — Four- tooth' d.
Vertigo — Vertigo.
FAMILY 2. — Aperture without teeth.
C^lindrus — Cylindrical. Reflexus— Reflected.
Croceus — Orange. Auriscalpium — Ear-picker.
Sulcatus — Sulcated. *Politus — Polished.
Corneus — Horny. *Subulatus — Awl-shap'd.
Decussatus — Decussated.
DIVISION IX. — SHELL TURRETED.
Imbricatus — Imbricated. *Terebra — Augur.
Replicatus — Large. Archimedis — Archimedes'.
Acutangulus — Sharp-angled. Variegatus — Variegated.
*Duplicatus — Double-ribbed. *Ungulinus — Doubtful.
Torcularis — Brown-spotted. Terebellum — Little.
Obsoletus — Obsolete. Annulatus — White.
*Exoletus — Ribbed. Turris-thomae — Tower.
UNIVALVES. — HELIX. 125
DIVISION X.— SHELL DEPRESSED.
•Nautileus — Nautilus. *Serpuloides — Serpula.
*Cristatus — Small-crested. Ludus — Green- spotted.
*Depressus — Minute-flattish. Marginellus — Reflected-lip.
HELIX.— SNAIL OR SPIRAL.
/
Animal — a Limax : Shell univalve, spiral, subdiaphanous,
brittle; aperture contracted, semilunar, or roundish.
THE one hundred and ninety-four species, which com-
pose this genus, are principally land or fresh water shells,
a few only being the produce of the ocean. They are
usually of a delicate and brittle structure, and remarkable
for their lightness ; their general form resembles that of
the common garden or hedge-snail, except in those species
which are tapering or elongated.
The first division consists of the carinated Helices, and
the more compressed or flattened species of the genus;
which, from their shape, are commonly called Antique
Lamps. The H. lapicida, H. marginata, and H. cicatri-
cosa, have acute margins, and are characteristic of the ca-
rinated species. These shells were formerly supposed to
have fallen in showers from the clouds.
Of the Antique Lamps, the H. lucerna, H. lampas, and
H. carocolla, are illustrative specimens. The rarest spe-
cies are the H. ringens, H. Gualteriana, and H. otis.
Some of the species of the third division are umbilicat-
ed, and are much more globose or inflated in their forms,
as the H. pomatia; which snail is an inhabitant of the
woods of Europe, and was introduced into England by Sir
Kenelm Digby, for medical purposes. The animal is used
126 UNIVALVES. — HELIX.
in many parts of Europe as an article of food during Lent,
and was considered a luxury by the Romans. It is ovi-
parous, and very tenacious of life; towards winter, it co-
vers its aperture with a calcareous lid, resembling an oper-
culum, and remains in a torpid state until the spring.
The animal of the H. ampullacea in the sixth division
grows to an immense size, and is also eaten; its eggs,
which it deposits in clusters on the bark of trees, or rushes,
&c. have sometimes a pink tinge, but are generally dull
white.
Of the species which compose the fourth division, may
be adduced the H. dextra and the H. perversa (a syn-
onym), which differ only in the direction of their whirls :
they are both rare shells, and have their surfaces covered
with a beautiful citron colour, variegated with green, and
striped or banded with brown. The H. ovata and H. ob-
longa are both land shells; the eggs of the animals are per-
fectly elliptical, and nearly equal in size to those of the com-
mon sparrow. The animals of the H. ianthina and H. glo-
bosa, forming the eighth division, have the property of emit-
ting a phosphorescent light, and stain the hand of a pur-
ple colour, not easily removed; they are found in great
numbers, floating on marine substances.
Amidst the endless variety of terrestrial shells, there is,
perhaps, no species so well known as the H. nemoralis or
common garden snail; it is an inhabitant of European
gardens and orchards, and very destructive to fruit and
tender leaves. Its eggs are perfectly round, and about the
size of small peas.
A very beautiful and rare species of the third division is the
H. haemastoma, which is admired for its elegant bandings
and rose coloured lips. A black lipped variety of this shell
has lately been discovered, which is also rather rare; the
body of the shell being pink, forms a beautiful contrast
with its jet lips.
UNIVALVES. — HELIX. 127
Of the turreted or tapering Helices may be particula-
rized the H. decollata and H. columna.
The last division contains those species which have their
apertures very large, exposing the whole of the interior of the
shell, and bear in shape a strong resemblance to the genus
Haliotis; of these the H. haliotoidea may be adduced as
an example.
Many of the Helices inhabit aquatic plants in standing
waters, lakes, ponds, and ditches: others are found on trees
and shrubs, and some harbour among rotten wood.
HELIX— Snail.
DIVISION I.— SHELL WITH A CARINATED MARGIN ON THE
BODY-WHIRL.
FAMILY 1. — UmUlicated and depressed.
*Lapicida— Rock. Exilis— White-striped.
Marginata — Margined. *Cantiana — Kent.
Cicatricosa — Reversed. *Rufescens — Reddish.
Albella— Whitish. *Crenulata— Black-tipp'd.
Albina — Minute- white. Annulata — Ringed.
*Rotundata — Small-radiated. *Fontana — Fresh-water.
Lsevipes — Reverse-whir I'd. Turcica — Turkish.
FAMILY 2. — Umbilicated and convex.
Cornu — Large-horn. Trochoides — Angular-mouth.
Oculus-capri — Goafs-eye. Incarnata — Flesh-colour' d.
Involvulus — White-reflected. Maculosa — Spotted.
Striatula — Striated. Corrugata — Wrinkled.
Algira — Yellowish. Pellis-serpentis — Snakes-skin.
Leucas — Purple- lined. Avellana — Hazel-nut.
FAMILY 3. — Imperforated and depressed.
Lampas — Orange -lip. Gualteriana — Gualter's.
Carocolla — Large- brown. Faba — Bean-shap'd.
128 UNIVALVES. — HELIX.
FAMILY 4. — Imperforated, and convex or ventricose.
Vermiculata — Rough- dotted. Gothica — Doubtful.
Cornu-militare — Bugle-horn. Scabra — Rough.
FAMILY 5. — Umbilicated, and aperture toothed.
Punctata — Punctured. Unidentata — One-toothed.
FAMILY 6. — Imperforated and aperture toothed.
Sinuata — Sinuous. Cepa — Onion.
Lucerna — Lamp. Nux-denticulata — Nut.
Lychnucus — Top-shaped. Verruca — Wart-lipped.
FAMILY 7. — Imperforate and convex, with the aperture toothed
and turned upwards.
Ringens — Grinner.
FAMILY 8. — Umbilicated and depressed, aperture ear-shaped,
distorted, toothed, and sinuated, with a marginated lip.
Otis — Plaited.
DIVISION II. — SHELL DEPRESSED, AND WHIRL COILED HORI-
ZONTALLY.
FAMILY 1. — Umbilicated.
*Cornea — Horn. *Contorta — Coiled.
Similis — Dotted. *Alba — White.
*Spirorbis — Small-concave. *Crystallina — Crystal.
Polygrata — Many-whirl' d. Cornu-arietis — Ram's-horn.
Cornu-venatorium — Hunter' s-horn.
FAMILY 2. — Imperforate and keeled.
*Planorbis — Notch-lipp'd. *Complanata — Flat-umbilicated.
* Vortex — Vortex.
DIVISION III. — SHELL WITH THE APERTURE SUB-LUNATE.
FAMILY 1. — Umbilicated and depressed.
*Ericetorum — Heath. *Tenuis— Thin.
*Strigata — Girdled. Cellaria — Cellar.
Incisa — Slit-margin1 d. Obvoluta — Small while-lipped.
*Pisana — Pisa. *Zonaria — Zoned.
*Nitida— Pellucid. Striata— Striated.
UNIVALVES. — HELIX. 129
Ungulina — Tawny-horn. Citrina — Citron.
*Itala — Brown-banded. Rapa — Single- band.
Minute Shells.
Minima — Minute. Costata — Cross-ribbed.
*Hispida — Hairy. Pulchella — Striated.
Umbilicata — Umbilicated. *Trochulus — Trochus- shaped.
*Aculeata — Prickly.
FAMILY 2. — Umbilicated and sub-globular.
*Castanea — Chesnut. Vittata — Ribbon.
Globulus — Globular. Lusitanica — Lusitdnian.
Lucana — Transparent. Hispana — Spanish.
*Arbustorum — Single-streak1 d. Vitrea— Brittle.
Fruticum — Six-whirVd. *Pomatia — Edible.
Fulva — Amber. Cincta — Red-banded.
Nemorensis — Polished. Rosacea — Flesh-colour* d.
Extensa — Four-whirl'd.
FAMILY 3. — Imperforate, and sub' globular.
Jamaicensis — Jamaica. Sultana — Variegated.
Rhodia — Rhodian. Hsemastoma — Rose-lipp'd.
Albolabris — White • lipped. Lactea — Milky.
*Nemoralis — Varied. Picta — Painted.
Cartusiana — Carthusian. Versicolor — Diversified.
*Lucorum — Brown-lipped. Aperta — Gaping.
*Grisea — Grey. *Fusca — Brown.
Pellucida — Transparent.
FAMILY 4. — Imperforate) and spire rather produced.
*Vivipara — Viviparous. Dissimilis — Black- lipped.
Fasciata — Banded. Angularis — Angular.
FAMILY 5. — Umbilicated and spire produced.
Scalaris — Produced.
DIVISION IV. — SHELL OVATE, OBLONG, VENTRICOSE, AND
APERTURE OVATE.
FAMILY 1. — Umbilicated.
Ovata — Oval. Oblonga — Oblong.
Lutaria — Mud. Flammea — Zebra.
130 UNIVALVES. — HKLIX.
Kambeul — Kambeul. Dextra — Yellow.
Pileus — Red fy yellow -strip' d. Stagnorum — Barley-corn.
Trifasciata — Three-banded. *0bscura — Small- brown.
Bontia — Brown-mouth' d. Lackhamensis — Lackham's.
Labiosa — Lipped. Detrita — Smooth-rayed.
Otaheitana — Otaheite. Guadaloupensis — Guadaloupe.
Laeva — Party-coloured. *Substriata — Substriated.
FAMILY 2. — Imperforate.
Recta — Straight. Aspera — Rough- striated, [cal.
Interrupta — Tessellated. *Sub-cylindrica — Sub-cylindri-
Papy racea — Fragile. Pella — Small- red- brown.
Arenaria — Minute-sand. Pupa — Little.
Barbara — Barbary.
DIVISION V. — SHELL OVATE-OBLONG, WITH THE WHIRLS
TRANSVERSELY KEELED AND CORONATED.
Amarula — Mitre.
DIVISION VI. — SHELL SUBGLOBULAR, VENTRICOSE, UMBILI-
CATED, AND APERTURE OVATE-OBLONG.
Ampullacea — Smooth-girdled. Glauca — Greyish- brown.
Urceus — Cocoa-nut. *Lacuna — Gutter-lipp'd.
DIVISION VII. — SHELL WITH THE WHIRLS LONGITUDINALLY
ANGULATED ON BOTH SIDES.
Scarabseus — Cockchafer. Afra — African.
DIVISION VIII. — SHELL UMBILICATED, ROUNDISH, OBTUSE,
DIAPHANOUS, BRITTLE, AND APERTURE
SUB-TRIANGULAR.
lanthina — Violet. Globosa — Globose.
DIVISION IX. — SHELL CONICAL, OBTUSE, DISTORTED, THE
SIDE OPPOSITE THE APERTURE GIBBOUS,
APERTURE COMPRESSED.
Lyonetiana — Lyonet's.
UNIVALVES. — HELIX.
DIVISION X.— SHELL SUB-UMBILICATED, PYRAMIDAL, AND
SUMMIT OBTUSE.
Eipistylium-^-Bee-hive. Papilla — Nipple.
DIVISION XI. — SHELL VENTRICOSE, PELLUCID, AND APER-
TURE OVATE.
FAMILY 1. — Imperforate.
*Stagnalis — Lake. Inflata — Inflated.
Fragilis — Brittle. Opaca — Opaque.
*Palustris — Marsh. *Tentaculata — Dusky.
*Fossaria— Ditch. *Lutea— Yellow.
Albicans — White. Sicula — Sicilian.
*Putris — Thin-yellowish. *Glutinosa — Membranous.
Peregra— -Horny. *Laevigata- Smooth- flesh-colour
*Limosa — Rough. Balthica — Baltic.
Truncatula — Truncated. Neritoidea — Nerite- shaped.
FAMILY 2. — Umbilicated.
Repanda— Ventricose. *Canalis — Channelled.
*Auricularia — Eared.
DIVISION XII.—TURRETED.
FAMILY 1. — Apex truncated.
Consolidata — Flat-tipp'd. Truncata — Flag.
Decollata — Truncated. Calcaria — Chalky.
Contorta-pHcata — Coiled-plaits.
FAMILY 2. — Apex acute.
C uspidata — Pointed. Octona — Slender.
Plicaria— White-spotted. Columna — Column.
Undulata — Waved. Incumbens — Tawny-strip' d.
Vibex — Red-marked. * Acuta — Double- banded.
Crenata — Crenated. Undata — Undulated.
Fuscata — Brown-clouded. Fluviatilis — River.
*Peregrina — Eight- whirl' d. Turbinata — Turbinated.
Carinula — Brown-lin'd.
DIVISION XIII. — SHELL DEPRESSED, SPIRE FLATTISH, APER-
TURE VERY LARGE, EXPOSING THE WHOLE INSIDE.
Perspicua — Large-mouth' d. Haliotoidea — Venus' s-ear.
132 UNIVALVES. — NERITA.
NERITA.— NERITE OR HOOF-SHELL.
Animal— a Limax: Shell univalve, spiral, gibbous, flaitish
at bottom; aperture semiorbicular or semilunar ; pillar-
Up transversely truncate, flattish.
THIS genus contains only sixty-seven species, and but
few of any great beauty or rarity.
There is considerable variation in the form and mark-
ings of the Neritae: some are spiral, with prominent whirls;
others have their whirls partly or wholly concealed ; some,
again, are umbilicated, while others are perfectly entire
and solid; and many have the umbilicus partially covered
by a repand lip, or fissurated nodule.
The interior of the mouth and lips is, in many species,
toothless; but, in others, both lips are beset with strong
prominent and articulated teeth, often terminating in dis-
jointed, elevated strias, or protuberant granulations.
In most species, the back of the shell is covered with
strong, elevated ribs, sometimes nodulous and imbricated ;
it is often only minutely striated, and has frequently a
perfectly smooth surface and brilliant polish.
Of the umbilicated species may be particularized the N.
canrena, of which there are many beautiful varieties; and
the N. cancellata, N. glaucina, N. vitellus, and N. mammil-
la; the common variety of the latter shell is white, having
a porcelain appearance ; but the rarer varieties incline to a
brownish orange, having their lips surmounted with a black
margin or border. The N. fulminea is marked with an-
gular stripes, resembling forked lightning.
The next division of the Nerites consists of those which
are imperforated and toothless, as the N. corona and N.
fluviatilis ; the former is often of a blackish colour, and has
UNIVALVES, NERITA. 133
its whirls crowned with spines of an unequal length : the
latter is an inhabitant of the rivers of Europe, and Barbary ;
it is usually marked with scaly spots, and is sometimes
rugged, streaked, or reticulated.
The species of the third division are distinguished from
those of the preceding by having their lips toothed : the
principal are the N. pulligera, N. atrata, N. undulata,
N. larva, and N. virginea, the latter of which is an inha-
bitant of the rivers of South America and India; like ma-
ny other species of the Neritae, it is toothed on the inner
lip only. Its varieties are extremely beautiful, and are of-
ten called the Guinea-hen or Guinea-fowl Nerites, from
the resemblance of its markings to the plumage of the bird
so named.
The varieties of the N. polita are the most beautiful of
this genus; they are smooth polished shells, and are ge-
nerally clouded with green, having intermediate maculate
bands of pale pink; but the most rare variety has three
or four bright crimson bands on a dark mottled ground,
running in a parallel direction with the convolutions of
the shell. These shells are frequently worn as ornaments
by the Indians.
Some species of this division are strongly ribbed or
grooved, as the N. histrio, N. plicata, N. grossa, N. pica,
and the N. chamseleon ; which last is varied by alternate
undulated black and white rays.
The N. turrita, from the Antilly Isles, and the N. acu-
leata, from India, are fresh-water species.
The different species of Neritse are produced in the Afri-
can, American, Indian, European, and Red seas; the
Southern and Northern oceans, the Mauritius, the Cape
of Good Hope, and New Zealand.
134 UNIVALVES. — NERITA.
NERITA.— tante or Hoof-Shell.
DIVISION I. — SHELL UMBILICATED.
FAMILY l.-~With the umbilicus rather large, nearly pervious.
Vitellus — Clouded-yellow. Rugosa — Wrinkled.
Punctata — Punctured. Vittata — Ribbon.
Cruentata — Red- spotted. *Pallidula — Pallid.
FAMILY 2. — With the umbilicus bifid.
*Canrena — Tabby-cat. Sulcata — Grooved.
Cancellata — Latticed. Spadicea — Chesnut.
Rufa — Reddish.
FAMILY 3. — With the umbilicus nearly closed by a callus, or by
the inner lip,
*Glaucina — Livid. Albumen — Liver-coloured.
Orientalis — Eastern. Mammilla — Breast.
Maroccana — Wave-striped. Papilla — Nipple.
Arachnoidea — Spiders-web. Melanostoma — Brown-pillar.
Ambigua — Am biguous.
FAMILY 4. — With the umbilicus toothed.
Fulminea — Ziczag.
DIVISION II. — SHELL IMPERFORATE AND TOOTHLESS.
FAMILY 1. — Spinous.
Corona — Crowned*
FAMILY 2. — Without spines.
Tladula — Rough-ribbed. *Littoralis — Strand.
Magdalena — Magdalen. *Lacustris — Lake.
Cornea — Horny. *Dubia — Black-mark.
*Fluviatilis — River. *Marginata — Margined.
DIVISION III. — SHELL IMPERFORATE AND TOOTHED.
FAMILY 1. — W,ith the inner lip toothed.
Pulligera — Reddish. Aculeata — Spinous.
UNIVALVES. — HALIOTIS. 13-5
Pupa — Black-and-white. Turrita — Tnrreted.
Bidens — Double- tooth' d. Piperina — Triangular- spotted.
Flavescens — Yellowish. Larva — Broad-land.
Viridis — Green. Ascensionis — Ascension.
Virginea — Guinea-fowl. Malaccensis — Malacca.
Hieroglyphica — Hieroglyphic.
FAMILY 2. — With both lips toothed or crenated.
Polita — Smooth. Lineata — Lined.
Peloronta — Bleeding-tooth. Versicolor — Many- colour' d.
Maxima — Great. Pica — Magpie. /
Histrio— Harlequin. Stella — Star.
Tessellata — Tessellated.
FAMILY 3. — With the inner lip toothed and wrinkled.
Atrata — Smooth-black. Flammea — Flame.
Nigerrima — Black. Grossa — Red-thrush.
Antillarum — Wrinkle-lip. Undulata — Thin-wav'd.
Plicata — Horse-tooth. Quadricolor — Four- colour' d.
FAMILY 4. — With the inner lip toothed and tuberculated.
Albicilla— Pimple lip. Exuvia— Ea-wwa.
Fulgurans — Lightning.
FAMILY 5. — With the inner lip toothed, wrinkled, and tuber-
culated.
Plexa — Thrush. Chamaeleon— Chameleon.
Costata — Ribbed. Undata — Waved.
HALIOTIS.— SEA-EAR OR EAR-SHELL.
Animal — a Limax: Shell univalve, dilated, ear-shaped,
with a longitudinal row of orifices along the surface;
spire lateral, and nearly concealed.
OF this beautiful genus there are but twenty-two species ;
and their general form and appearance are so similar, that
136 UNIVALVES.— HALIOTIS.
it- often becomes a matter of difficulty to distinguish the
one from the other. The form of all the Haliotides re-
sembles the human ear, excepting one, which is called the
H. asinina, or ass's ear, on account of its being much more
elongated or distended than any of the other species.
There are three reasons which operate to create diffi-
culty in the arrangement of the species of this genus : —
First, the outside of the shell is generally loaded with ma-
rine substances, or else is so much decayed or worn as
not to offer a lineament of the original texture, thereby
precluding all possibility of judging by the work or colour
to what species it appertains. Secondly, as the interior
of the Haliotides is enamelled with a magnificent surface
of iridescent pearl, no great distinction can be made by a
reference to that part of the shell. Thirdly, as the beau-
ty of the shell is considerably increased by being wholly
or partially uncoated and polished, it is customary to sub-
mit it to some such beautifying operation; which, how-
ever, with the surface at once removes all clue to the at-
tainment of the specific character.
The exterior of the shell is generally composed of rugae
or tuberculations, over which pass approximate elevated
striae. In some species, foliations supply the place of tu-
berculations, as in the H. Midas or Midas' ear; the out-
side of which is wrinkled, and of a dusky white hue ; but
the inside is most beautifully iridescent. It is often eight
or nine inches long.
The back of almost the whole of the Haliotides is fur-
nished with a row of orifices near the margin ; varying in
number from eight to thirty-eight; of these from three
to seven are generally open, and the rest perfectly closed.
There are, however, three exceptions to this general char-
acter; for the H. imperforata, H. impertusa, and H. du-
bia are entirely void of any orifices. The former, which
UNIVALVES. — HALIOTIS. 13?
has an ovate form, with an exserted spire and prickly ribs,
is a rare shell.
The Haliotis tuberculata is found on the British coasts.
The H. parva is remarkable for its red or scarlet colour,
and for having but one large elevated rib or angle on its
back. The H. bistriata is peculiar for having a succession
of double elevated striae, placed in a transverse direction
on the back. The H. pulcherrima is a beautiful and rare
shell from the South Seas.
The H. iris, (from New Zealand), is celebrated for its
bright iridescent colours, which are finely contrasted with
a green and gold bronze-like lustre. The H. gigantea,
from New Holland, sometimes exceeds a foot in length.
The Haliotides are found on the shores of Europe, Afri-
ca, and India; where, like the limpets, they adhere to the
rocks, from which they are with difficulty removed.
HALIOTIS— Sea-Ear.
DIVISION I. — SHELL PERFORATED.
FAMILY 1. — Roundish or ovate.
Midse — Midas*-Ear. Australia — Rough-plaited.
Pulcherrima — Beautiful. Gigantea — Gigantic.
Virginea — Iridescent. Iris — Iris.
*Tuberculata — Common. Cracherodii — Cracherode's.
Striata — Wrinkled. Ovina — Chesnut-marble.
Bistriata — Double- lined. Parva — Small-orange.
Varia — Rough- striated. Rufescens — Magnificent.
Marmorata — Marbled. Splendens — Splendid.
Glabra — Smooth-mottled. Corrugata — Corrugated.
FAMILY 2. — Oblong.
Asinina — Ass's-ear.
DIVISION II. — SHELL IMPERFORATE.
Imperforata — Carinated. Impertusa — Imperforate.
Dubia—
138
UNIVALVES.
II. WITHOUT A REGULAR SPIRE.
PATELLA. — LIMPET OR DISH-SHELL.
Animal — a Limax: Shell univalve, subconic, shaped like
a bason, without a spire.
THIS genus contains one hundred and six species. They
are very similar in form, which, with a few exceptions, ap-
proximates to that of a cone, with its apex a little blunted.
But, with regard to the colours and workings, they differ
exceedingly; some being perfectly smooth, whilst others
are strongly granulated and spinous ; and many are deep-
ly striated or covered with elevated tuberculated rays.
Of the limpets which are very entire, and not pointed at
the tip or crown, those most worthy of notice are the P.
afra, P. areolata, P. flammea, P. Indica, and P. testudina-
ria ; the latter is rather a rare species, and generally has
its interior of a silvery hue. The P. compressa is remark-
able for its narrow and lengthened form, which gives it the
appearance of having been squeezed or pinched.
The P. umbellata is one of the rarities of the genus; it
sometimes grows to a large size ; it is a flat, broad, expand-
ing shell, of a blueish white colour, having its interior of
a glossy yellowish or brownish cast, and the tip generally
UNIVALVES. — PATELLA. 139
of a beautiful orange colour; the margin is often circular-
ly scalloped.
Those species which are more compressed, and have
their margins angularly or irregularly toothed, form the se-
cond division : as the P. laciniosa, P. saccharina, P. granu-
laris, P. granatina, &c. The P. vulgata, or common limpet,
is found in great abundance on the British shores.
The third division of the Patella includes the perforated
species ; the principal are the P. Grseca, P. nimbosa, P.
Caffra, P. perforata, and P. macroschisma ; the latter, when
in fine preservation, is considered a rarity ; it grows to a
considerable size, and is found at Japan.
The next division comprehends the species which are
cap-shaped, and have a recurved tip. Of these the P.
Ungarica is the most remarkable ; it is a beautiful shell,
and from its similarity of shape is called the Fool's Cap.
The exterior is usually of a pale fawn colour, and the outer
margin is bordered with a fine bristly epidermis; when
the interior is of a very bright pink colour, this limpet is
considered more valuable.
The P. lutea has some resemblance to an Haliotis, but
the flatness and ear-shaped form of the latter genus is a
sufficient distinction. The P. pectinata is covered with
spines, and the P. perversa is remarkable for having its
crown recurved, and turned towards the hind part of the
animal.
The species of the sixth division are entire, and furnish-
ed with an internal lip, which is strikingly observable in the
P. equestris and P. Sinensis ; some of them are rough and
scaly, whilst others are perfectly smooth and polished; they
are known by the name of Cup-and- saucer Limpets.
The species of the seventh division are chambered or
vaulted, and have the appearance of a slipper; such are
the P. porcellana, P. fornicata, and P. aculeata.
140 UNIVALVES. — PATELLA.
The Patellae are usually found adhering by their base to
rocks, stones, fuel, and other marine substances, from which
they are with much difficulty removed. They inhabit the
Indian, Southern, European, Northern, and Mediterranean
seas ; the American and Indian islands ; the Atlantic, and
the shores of China, Greenland, and Iceland.
The Patellae derive their name from their resemblance
to a little dish or bason reversed.
PATELLA— Limpet.
DIVISION I. — Shell with the summit obtuse, and the margin entire"
*Pellucida — Pellucid. Flammea — Agate.
*Laevis — Smooth. Indica — Indian.
Radians — Grey-mottled. Vitellina — Yellow.
Rota — Roundish. Las vigata — White- tipp'd.
Testudinaria — Tortoise-shell. Surinamensis — Surinam.
*Clealandi — Clealand's. Punctulata — Dotted.
Testudinalis — Small-tortoise- sh. Notata — Wheat-sheaf.
Compressa — Flat-sided. Cruciata — White-cross.
Mytiliformis— Muscle. Reticulata— Reticulated.
Afra— African. Caeca— White-border' d.
Rustica — Narrow ribbed. Virginea — Purple-rayed.
Jamaicensis — Jamaica. Tessellata — Tessellated.
Stellifera — Starred. Fulva — Orange-tawny.
Fusca — Sugar-loaf. Ambigua — White-duck' s-bill.
Areolata — Pyramidal. Umbellata — Parasol.
DIVISION II. — Shell with the margin angular, or irregularly
toothed.
Laciniosa — White-eyed. Margaritacea — Great-sun.
Plicata— Plaited. Barbara— Toothed.
Monopis — Chesnut-streaked. Cypria — White-ribbed.
Saccharina — Star. Oculus-capri — Goafs-eye.
Angulosa — Angular. Pentagona — Five-angled.
Repanda — Small- sun. Granularis — White-grained.
Tennis — Thin-amber. Granatina — Garnet.
UNIVALVES. — PATELLA. 141
Chlorosticta — Pigeon1 s-throat. Ulyssiponensis— Buckler.
Tigrina — Tiger. Radiata — Radiated.
Ornata — Adorned. Lugubris — Black.
Melanogramma — Black- ribbed. Vulgata — Common.
Ferruginea — Rusty. Ccerulea — Blue.
Crenata — Little-grey. Tuberculata — White-pimpled.
Sanguinolenta — Rose-streaked. Cochlear — Horse-shoe.
DIVISION III. — Shell with the summit perforated.
Noachina — Perforated. Pileolus — Open-cap.
Pustula — Doubtful. Scutellum — Scutcleon.
Grseca — Cancellated. Picta— Painted.
Atricapilla — Black-ring. Nimbosa — Scaly-ribbed.
Nodosa — Tuberculated. Nubecula — Variegated.
Perforata— Partridge. Porphyrozonias — Porphyry.
Caffra — African. Macroschisma — Key-hole.
DIVISION IV. — Shell with the summit pointed and recurved.
*Ungarica — Fool's-cap. Mammillaris — Nipple.
*Militaris — Hooked. Leucopleura — Small-rayed.
*Antiquata — Antiquated. Tricarinata — Three-keeled.
Cochleata— White-ridged. Pectmatm—Spined.
Calyptra — Helmet. Fusco-lutea — Yellowish-brown.
*Intorta — Inclining. Lutea — Yellow.
Cassida — Lentil-seed. Perversa — Reverse-tipp'd.
Tranquebarica — Brilliant. Lacustris — Lake.
Oblonga — Oblong.
DIVISION V. — Shell with a marginal fissure.
*Fissura — Slit. Incisa — Reticulated-slit.
Fissurata — Rose-colour' d.
DIVISION VI. — Shell with an internal appendage at the summit.
Equestris — Cup-fy-saucer. *Sinensis — Chinese-bonnet.
Neptuni — Neptune' s-cap. Auriculata — Ear-shop' d.
Tectum — Chinese-roof. Duplicata — Double.
DIVISION VII. — Shell with an internal transverse partition.
Trochiformis — Trochus-shap'd. Trochoides — Wave-ribbed.
142 UNIVALVES. — OENTALIUM.
Neritoidea — Chambered. Aculeata — Spiny-ribbed.
Porcellana — Brown-spot. Goreensis — Sandal.
Fovnicata — Slipper. Crepidula — Transparent- white.
DENTALIUM— TOOTH OR TUSK-SHELL.
Animal — a Terebella : Shell univalve, tubular , straight, or
slightly curved, with an undivided cavity open at both ends.
OF this singular genus there are hut fifteen species;
they are very similar in form, and resemble an elephant's
tusk in miniature.
They differ principally in magnitude, and in the number
of ribs and grooves with which some of the species are
marked; a trifling distinction may also be made with re-
gard to the degree of curvature which many of them pos-
sess.
One of the largest and most valuable species is the D.
elephantinum ; it is often three or four inches long, slight-
ly curved, and has generally ten strong, elevated ribs,
which are encircled by dark green bands on a greenish
ground; it inhabits the Indian and European seas.
The D. rectum, though nearly allied to the D. elephan-
tinum, is a straight shell, and therefore easily distinguish-
ed from it. It is also adorned with doubled or tripled
longitudinal striae, which at the same time are encircled
with annular ones. The D. fasciatum is a small species,
finely striated, and encircled with four or five brown bands
on a greyish ground.
Some species are striated annularly : such are the D. po-
litum, (which is finely pointed, solid, and often of a tosy
or pinkish colour), and the D. eburneum.
UNIVALVES. — DENTALIUM. 143
Other species are smooth, or covered with striae, so mi-
nute that they cannot be discovered without the aid of a
magnifying glass. Of these, the D. pellucidum is an ex-
ample ; it is of a horny or pale honey colour, very narrow
and thin, and does not effervesce in acids ; it is an inhab-
itant of the Northern seas, and about two inches and a
quarter long. The D. entalis, which is an inhabitant of
the Indian and European shores, is generally an inch and
a half long, and of a reddish or pale yellow colour, and
the tip is often tinted with orange or pink.
The D. minutum inhabits the Mediterranean ; it is a
round, straightish, smooth shell, and so very minute as
scarcely to be discernible by the naked eye ; it resembles
a small bristle, or one of the spines of an echinus.
The D. imperforatum (from Sandwich and its neighbour-
hood) is also a minute species, and is by no means com-
mon.
The recent species are mostly from the Indian and Eu-
ropean oceans j though some few are from the Mediterra-
nean and Northern seas, and one species inhabits the shores
of Africa.
DENTALIUM— Tooth- SMI.
FAMILY I.— With longitudinal ribs.
Rectum — Straight. *Striatum — Striated.
Elephantinum — Elephant's. *Dentalis — Curved- striated.
Aprinum — White-ribbed. Fasciatum — Banded.
* Imperforatum — Minute-truncated.
FAMILY 2. — With annular strife.
Politum— Ring-striated. Eburneum— Smooth-ivory.
*Trachea — Minute-windpipe.
FAMILY 3. — Smooth.
*Entalis — Common. *Gadus — Hake's.
Corneum — Horn-colour' d. *Minutum — Minute.
Pellucidum — Pe Ihicid.
1 44 UNIVALVES. — SERPUL A.
SERPULA— WORM-SHELL.
Animal — a Terebella: Shell univalve, tubular, generally
adhering to other substances : often separated internally
by divisions at uncertain distances.
THE genus Serpula contains forty species ; their form
(with few exceptions) is exceedingly irregular. They are
generally found in groups or clusters, adhering to other
substances, such as rocks, stones, roots of trees, sides of
ships, zoophytes, sertularias, fuci, shells, corals, &c. They
are invariably tubular, and present themselves sometimes
isolated, either straight or twisted, but more frequently in
clusters, consisting of many hundred spiral and twisted
tubes, curiously interwoven with each other.
Of the species which are isolated and spiral, may be in-
stanced the S. spirillum, S. spirorbis, and S. afra; which
have their whirls nearly contiguous, and resemble the He-
lices.
To this same class belongs the well-known but rare shell,
the Watering-pot Serpula, (S. aquaria). Its larger end is
closed by a convex disk, with numerous small perforations,
and generally a longitudinal one in the middle, the whole
encircled by a dilated margin of elegant papyraceous tubes,
resembling a beautifully plaited ruff or frill; the smaller
end is open. It is found in the Indian ocean, and seldom
exceeds five inches in length.
The S. gigantea is about an inch in diameter, and some-
times exceeds half a foot in length. The S. lumbricalis is
a flexuous shell, -with a spiral acute tip, and very much re-
sembles a cork-screw.
One of the remarkable species of this genus is the S.
anguina, which has a slit or long-jointed cleft along the
UNIVALVES.— SERPULA. 115
spiral convolutions of its shell. The S. muricata has its
shell beset with a succession of spines or prickles : it is
usually of a rosy or pink colour, and sometimes has its aper-
ture margined.
The S. cornu-copiae, or horn of plenty, is, in all proba-
bility, only a dropped Helix nemoralis, or common garden
snail, and of course not belonging to this genus. The S.
denticulata is sometimes found in the Lepas tintinnabu-
lum; and the S. granulata adheres to the roots of the fucus
digitatus ; the S. retorta is retort shaped; the latter is scarce.
The S. incurvata partially resembles the Nautilus semili-
tuus, but it wants the internal concamerated structure.
The colours of the Serpulae are various; the most gene-
ral, however, are brown, purple, yellow, tawny, pink, and
white, sometimes a little greenish.
The Indian, African, American, and Northern oceans
supply many species; as also do the European, Mediter-
ranean, Adriatic, and Red seas.
SERPULA— Worm- Shell.
DIVISION I. — Attached to other substances.
Spirillum — Minute Spiral. Glomerata — Glomerated.
Triquetra — Three-sided. Conica — Conical.
*Intricata — Intricate. *Vermicularis — Round.
*Corrugata — Wrinkled. *Tubularia — Tubular.
Contortuplicata — Twisted. Denticulata — Toothed.
Goreensis — Goree. Ocrea — Boot-shaped.
Gigantea — Great.
Minute Shells.
Stellaris — Rayed pin's-head. Granulata — Grained.
Planorbis — Flat. Cancellata — Grooved.
Minuta — Minute. *Heterostropha — Reversed.
Spirorbis — Tapering. *Lucida — Shining.
Carinata — Keeled. Vitrea— Glossy.
146 UNIVALVES. — TEREDO.
DIVISION II. — Detached.
*Semilunum — Small-reed. Anguina — Serpent.
Incurvata — Incurved. Muricata — Prickly.
Cereolus — Bougie. Annularis — Ringed snake.
Nebulosa — Clouded tawny. Retor-ta — Retort-shaped.
Lumbricalis — Cork-screw. Cornu-copise — Cornucopia.
Arenaria — Sandy. Decussata — Decussated.
Afra — Smooth- brown. Proboscidea — Proboscis.
Volvox — Caterpillar. Protensa — Lengthened.
DIVISION III. — With radiated border and perforated disk.
Aquaria — Watering-pot.
TEREDO. — SHIP-WORM.
Animal — a Terebella, with two calcareous hemispherical
valves cut off before, and two lanceolate ones : Shell ta-
pering, flexuous, and capable of penetrating wood.
THERE are but four species of this genus : the first is
the T. navalis, or common ship worm ; it is very thin, cy-
lindrical, and smooth, and is more or less twisted, and ra-
ther obtuse or blunt at the tip ; it varies in length from four
to six inches. This worm was originally imported from
India, it has the faculty of penetrating the stoutest oaken
planks of ships' sides, and effects as much destruction in
the water as the termes or white ant on land.
The T. utriculus is also cylindrical, undulate, and solid;
it is found in wood that has lain some time under water.
It is white, subpellucid, very much bent, and gradually ta-
pering, with an oval aperture, divided in the middle by a
partition. Its length is about seven inches.
The third species is the T. clava, which is found in the
UNIVALVES. — SABELLA. 147
seminal vessels of the xilosteurn granatum; one end is cla-
vate, the other incurved, narrower, obtuse, and perforated
in the middle : the shell is rough, and brownish on the out-
side, but within it is smooth, and more or less flexuous.
It is nearly two inches long, but not half an inch wide.
The fourth is the T. gigantea, which is remarkable for hav-
ing its interior separated by imperforated convex and con-
cave divisions, making the shell appear as if it consisted of
numerous united tubes. The smaller end of this shell is
also peculiar for being terminated by two distinct or se-
parate small tubular pipes, which are jointed in the same
manner as the main stem from which they spring; the
shell, in this state, resembles a two-pronged fork. It is
an inhabitant of the Mediterranean and Indian seas, and
is often found concealed under the sands; it sometimes at-
tains the extraordinary size of three feet.
TEREDO— Ship Worm.
Navalis —Ship. Clava — Club-shaped.
Utriculus — Timber. Gigantea — Gigantic.
SABELLA.— SABELLA.
minimal — a Nereis, with a ringent mouth, and two thicker
tentacula behind the head: Shell tubular, composed of
particles of sand, broken shells, and vegetable substances,
united to a membrane by a glutinous cement.
THIS very extraordinary genus contains no less than
twenty-five species. The membrane which composes the
H2
148 UNIVALVES.— SABELLA.
basis of these animals is covered with various fragments
and particles of different marine and vegetable productions.
The S. vegetabilis and S. arundinacea are covered with
fragments of twigs, the bark of stems or reeds, and bro-
ken pieces of tellina cornea. The S. ammoniata is coated
with fragments of the cornu-ammonis.
The covering of the S. Indica is composed of capillary
sub-cylindrical agglutinated crystals of quartz ; and that of
the S. clavata of various sized stones.
Some of the species, as the S. scruposa, S. chrysodon, £c.
are detached; whereas theS. scabra is affixed by the base.
The S. alveolata has numerous parallel tubes, communi-
cating by an aperture, forming in the mass the appearance
of honey-combs. It is an inhabitant of the European
coasts, and covers the rocks for a considerable space, and
is easily broken under the feet. The tubes are straightish,
and from two to three inches long. The S. rectangula is
one of the largest of the genus, and often measures nine
inches in length.
There are no less than fourteen or fifteen species which
inhabit rivers and fresh waters ; and most of them are from
the waters of Thuringia and Belgium, where they are af-
fixed to stones, &c. The other species are from the Indian,
American, Northern, and European seas.
SABELLA— Sabella.
FAMILY 1. — Composed of grains of sand, stones, or shells.
Scruposa — White sandy. Nigra — Black.
Scabra — Rough. Stagnalis — River.
Alveolata — Honeycomb. Conica— Conic.
Chrysodon — Pebble. Uncinata — Hooked.
Belgica — Tubular. Sabulosa — Gravel.
Rectangula — Rectangular. Ammoniata — Ammonites.
Capensis — Cape. Helicina— Helix.
UNIVALVES. — SABELLA. 149
Dimidiata — Divided. Marsupialis — Sooty.
Fixa — Stony, Norwegica — Nonvay.
Clavata — Club-shaped. Lumbricalis — Coarse.
Indica — Indian.
FAMILY 2. — Composed of vegetable substances.
Vegetabilis — Vegetable. Arundinacea — Reed.
Corticalis — Bark. Aculeata— Twig.
THE END.
H.3
EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES.
PLATE I.
Fig.
1 Chiton Squamosus Scaly Chiton.
a Chiton Fascicularis • • • . Banded Chiton.
2 Lepas Anatifera Duck Barnacle.
3 Lepas Balanoides Smooth Acorn Shell.
4 Pholas Dactylus Prickly Piercer.
5 Mya Truncata Abrupt Gaper.
6 Tellina Ferroensis Brindled Tellen.
7 Pinna Pectinata Muricated Pinna.
8 Solen Sanguinolentus • • Red Solen.
9 Solen Legumen Pease-cod Razor Sheath.
10 Mytilus Modiolus Tulip Muscle.
1 1 Anomia Ephippium • • • • Common English Anomia.
12 Ostrea Opercularis • • • . • Common English Pecten.
13 Area Noae Noah's Ark.
14 Chama Gigas » . Furbelowed Clam.
15 Spondylus Gaedaropus • Thorny Oyster.
16 Venus Chione Smooth Brown Venus.
17 Donax Denticulata ..... Toothed Wedge Shell.
18 Mactra Stultorum Common English Mactra.
10 Cardium Edule Common Eatable Cockle.
PLATE II.
Fig.
20 Argonauta Argo ....... Paper Nautilus.
21 Nautilus Pompilius Chambered Nautilus.
22 Nautilus Spirula Spiral, or Crozier-headed
Nautilus.
23 Conus Virgo, or Tessel- Mosaic, or Tessellated Pave-
latus ment Cone.
24 Conus Ebraeus Hebrew Cone.
25 Conus Textile 'Embroidered, or Cloth of
Gold Cone.
26 Cyprsea Arabica Nutmeg Cowry.
27 Cypraea Moneta ....... Trussed-fowl, or Black-a-
moor's-tooth Cowry.
28 Cyprasa Mus Mouse Cowry.
29 Bulla Terebellum Auger, or Borer Bulla.
30 Bulla Naucum White Bulla, or Dipper.
31 Bulla Lignaria Wood-grain Bulla.
32 Voluta Utriculus Common Olive.
33 Voluta Musica Music Volute.
34 Voluta Episcopalis Bishop's Mitre.
35 Voluta Persicula Pigmy Volute.
36 Voluta Tornatilis Mouse-ear Volute.
J.Mtnve, 149, Strand .
PLATE III.
37 Buccinum Patulum • • • Common, or Wide-mouthed
Scoop.
38 Buccinum Dolium ..... Ribbed Tun.
.'39 Buccinum Areola ...... Draft-board Helmet.
40 Strombus Auris-Dianae • Ass's-ear Alatus
4 1~ S trombus Pes-Pelicani • • Pelican 's-foot Alatus.
42 Murex Tribulus ....... Thorny Woodcock.
43 Murex Neritoideus ..... Mulberry.
44 Murex Ramosus . . ..... Aculeated Triplex.
45 Trochus Perspectivus • ••• Staircase Trochus.
46 Helix Ampullacea ..... Apple Snail.
47 Helix Cornea ......... Ram's-horn Snail.
PLATE IV.
Fig.
48 Turbo Bidens Two-toothed Turbo.
49 Turbo Petholatus Ribband Turbo.
50 Nerita Virginea Guinea-hen Nerite.
51 Nerita Plicata Plaited Nerite.
52 Haliotis Tuberculata • • • Common Ear Shell.
53 Haliotis Asinina Ass's-ear Shell.
54 Haliotis Tuberculata • • • Outside view of fig. 52.
55 Patella Perforata Perforated Limpet.
56 Patella Vulgata • Common Limpet.
57 Patella Fissura Cracked Limpet.
58 Patella Sinensis Chinese-bonnet Limpet.
59 Patella Equestris Cup-and-saucer Limpet.
60 Dentalium Striatum Striated Tooth Shell.
61 Serpula Aquaria Watering-pot Serpula.
62 Teredo Navalis Common Ship Worm.
63 Sabella Belgica Granulated Sabella.
PLATE V.
Shewing the HINGES of Bivalves, and other Peculiarities.
Fig.
1 Internal view of the Donax Scortum, shewing the
hinge.
2 Internal view of the Solen Siliqua, shewing the hinge.
3 Internal view of the Solen Vespertinus, shewing the
hinge.
4 Internal view of the Ostrea Isognomon, shewing the
hinge.
5 Internal view of the Pholas Dactylus, shewing the
teeth.
6 Internal view of the Pinna Pectinata.
7 Internal view of the Mactra Stultorum, shewing the
hinge.
8 Internal view of the Mytilus Hirundo.
9 Internal view of the Mya Aurita, shewing the hinge.
10 Trochus Conchyliophorus, shewing its singular pro-
pensity of collecting and affixing shells to itself.
1 1 Variety of the above, sometimes called the Mineralo-
gist, because it collects stones.
PLATE VI.
Fig.
1 Mytilus Edulis, shewing the beard or byssus.
2 Teredo Navalis, shewing the shells imbedded in the
wood, which they have perforated.
3 Variety of the Murex Lotorium, shewing its hairy
epidermis.
4 Helix Ampullacea, partially covered with its epider-
mis.
5 Variety of Ostrea Varia, shewing a Serpula adhering
to it.
6 Venus Meretrix, shewing the anterior slope.
7 Area Glycymeris, shewing the inside and the hinge.
8 Cardium Lineatum, shewing the inside and the hinge.
9 Internal view of the Anomia Sella, (in a young state),
shewing the triangular hinge.
10 Internal view of the Tellina Virgata, shewing the
hinge.
11 Internal view of the Spondylus Gsedaropus shewing
the hinge.
12 Internal view of the Chama Cordata, shewing the
hinge.
13 A group of Lepas Tintinnabulum.
14 A group of Lepas Anatifera, shewing the peduncles
and tentacula.
LONDON:
w. M'DOWALL, PRINTER, PEMBERTON ROW,
GOUGH SQUARE.
VI.
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY
BERKELEY
Return to desk from which borrowed.
This book is DUE on the last date stamped below.
r;> *; T - *
~? •
DEC-S
MAR *7
WAR 2 4 19r
0£Cl4l955
DEC 1 4 1955
1S49
1952
LD 21-100m-9,'48(B399sl6)476
W4
&
THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY
Live Music Archive
Librivox Free Audio
Metropolitan Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Internet Arcade
Console Living Room
Books to Borrow
Open Library
TV News
Understanding 9/11