‘ aX Fergiinn c a a Sar ty wr 4 ae a ; et ‘ / BS 4 * T. i 4 To + .' v oe ys %e- e 4 Ww a ‘ en OY ‘ . 3s 74 . i a > 7 x je. a hte day. . & * we . oe ~ 4% ne ; " tae, , 7 3 Py Z % ne fe 4 3 Ar od a “ 7 bin 2} : % q = a , peu ~ ; ‘ 4 7 + i. ¥ - hs : Sg mi 2 * Smithsonian Institution Libraries Purchased from the ALICE E. KENNINGTON RARE BOOK FUND 8 NS PS 3 sh “Na S Pi s ° WODARCH’S INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF CONCHOLOGY : DESCRIBING The Orders, Genera, and Species SHELLS: WITH OBSERVATIONS ON THE NATURE AND PROPERTIES OF THE ANIMALS; AND DIRECTIONS FOR COLLECTING, PRESERVING, AND CLEANING SHELLS. THIRD EDITION, With considerable Additions and Alterations, BY J. MAWE, Author of Familiar Lessons on Mineralogy and Geology; Treatise on Diamonds and Precious Stones; Travels in South America, and through the Gold and Diamond Districts of Brazil, &c. &c. London: PUBLISHED BY LONGMAN, HURST, REES, ORME, AND BROWNE, PATERNOSTER ROW; ; AND BY J. MAWE, N® 149, sTRAND. 1825, RS a ——$—$—$—$$—$ W. M*Dowall, Printer, Pemberton Row, Gough Square, FRONTISPIECE. Shewing four different genera of SprRAt SHELLS. Fig. 1 Buccinum Dimidiatum -...-- Fawn Needle. 2 Buccinum Subulatum --+--- Tiger Spire. 3 Strombus Fusus --.----++: -- Spindle. __4 Murex Colus Nicobaricus -- Embroidered Crane. 5 Murex Colus --....-...--- Crane. 6 Turbo Imbricatus---------. Rusty Screw. 7 Turbo Exoletus,or Cinctus - Ribbed Screw. ERRATA. Page. 31 5 Lines from the bottom, for Ninety-four read Ninety-five. 99 8 Lines from the bottom, for Three-fiamed read Three- finned. CONTENTS. == GEOSSARY. cici¢avartis o'e'w 6 oo oes ere eoeeees ... Page Vii CHAPTER I. General Observations ...... . SEtisis seis aiataie = «entre Properties of animals inhabiting shells ce eeeer Gia 3) oh wi ae Customary uses to which shells and their inhabitants are COBY EMCD a nie 6-cyp 5 oe, alas arsnlae laces staics, Tecate eet ee Enemies to shells and shell-fish.........02.202% wees & Directions for collecting shells, and arranging them systema GA wca ocho une cha, os. ejay ooh ata Maetetcl ere oes! Bi aie. « 6 Methods of preserving and cleaning shells ......... ie Ae CHAPTER II. Description of the animals inhabiting shells........... 10 CHAPTER IIL ASR UB LE MUN 9, nie gha 0s! sUao ot ah Bite ee torres OR ken es 13 Bes MEM ARVO cla oS eta ore ea te eee oo Ire Bite veto. < vannoe 13 BL) Sriwalees. wills: ote Sees eal tetatlel dig! wie: oes os: ele 13 III. Univalves.—1. With a regular spire............ 14 2. Without a regular spire........ pia ES al CONTENTS. ORDER I.—MULTIVALVES. Ciitaas «72> omee 17 | Lepas ... +. << . . Page 20 PROS sccoretinewin oe ss 24 ORDER II.—BIVALVES. Mya. 53... Bees alge op ee ol BODO YING ys" e600 <6: sa wus 45 SE ARR eee a PD iale (pastas P55 e835 ss se0s ote 47 ERA poo sb ce aa e's wed ER pic ta co wa x aceeaeteus 50: SCARCE io fu aie sls gt aie BA. t OSIRED se padie ice ee PRICING ees aia ebase @ a san 36.'| AOI ss pe ton 4 Peron WONAX 2 oc 0 sp ogee ore os BO. | Ni wtgGGe so, corm arcmin - 62 UTS GE a ean 4] Pini sor aie. trea . 65 ORDER III.—UNIVALVES AT GOMMUED oy sc a5 0nd 2 2s BSc Pare rasts ns eae fees 107 PEGALANIS 5. 5. 's oases, @ eka 70 EXGUG anaes avavehabete ap 113 CONUS 3s vse 8 ST NGHIA. y awtene san ee a ke Cyprea ..... Parity a5 7D.) Haliptis :.505 <1 sateen BeWe Leth ohetien ress Gre one wiase 72 |. Patella. ui. ates et ae WON ete eee kone sya $2° | Dentalium 2 ..2:2 4s 5 132 GOVE es eines es we 87 4), Sexpullayacta:s )iseeeie er 135 BINGUIUUS “acre chen ws 92 Teredo titer ete oe 138 1 Eh ta, Speers Re pe ae yee he DOe |. AMEN ok tein tones keee 139 Trochus............102 | Explanation of the Plates 141 GLOSSARY OF 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: bimarginated, when the right lip forms a double mar- gin: coarctate, contracted: compressed, flattened: gap- ing, when one of the extremities is wider than the other: dinear, when narrow, and the length greatly ex- ceeds the breadth: transverse, when the breadth is great- er than the length. (These terms are applied to Uni- valves). 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 T'eeth. 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. vill GLOSSARY. Beak, Beakhed, having the extremity of the base of the shel! elongated and contracted in the form of a beak. Bearded, when the epidermis 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. fig. 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, channeled 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 sheil 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. Coidiform, heart-shaped. Coronaled, having the apex surrounded with a row of tubercles or spines. Crenated, Crenulate, having blunt teeth. GLOSSARY. 1X Decollated, having the spire or upper part of the shell truncated transversely. Decussated, intersected by striz 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. fig. 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 Multivalves), when the two prin- cipal 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 4. 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. >, 4 GLOSSARY. 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: /ateral, when placed on one side of the shell: reflected, when its edges are folded over the exterior margin: terminal, 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. Inequivalve, when the valves are dissimilar. Involute, without a spire, as in the Patelle, 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. GLOSSARY. xl 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 other side of the hinge: superior, the space between the anterior and posterior parts. Marginate, (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 mus- cles with which the animal adheres to the shell, as in the Common Oyster. Obovate, nearly oval. Obsolete, obliterated. Obtuse, blunt pointed. Operculum, (in Multivalves), the stellular valves which shut up the superior orifice: (in Univalves), the part which exactly fits into the aperture, and encloses 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. Peduncele, atendinous 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- Ja is situated, Pisiform, pea-like. xil GLOSSARY. Plaited, when the columella is toothed, as in Volutes. Posterior, see Margin. Reticulated, like net-work. 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. Slope, the side from the beaks. Spinous, having prickles or thorns. Spire is formed by the whole of the upper aids. Stria, lines, flat or slightly raised: they are called longt- 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. Syphon, a prolonged tube running through the partitions of chambered shells. 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 GLOSSARY. Xiil 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, hav- ing 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 tothe spire, which seems toproceed from the centre. 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. Whirl, a spiral convolution, iit nd ay: ’ ta Chae! ort 4 a At Hive - tks kik, }: FE ge me y | “ a ‘ , Vig he stpearD oe vad ciel AVN 3 id ok) af 9! PEs aD, ime selma Ae. J Mawe,149, Strand EXPLANATION OFTHE PLATES. PLATE I. Fig. 1 6 i 8 -9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Cardium Edule Chiton Squamosus - ---- Chiton Fascicularis- -- - - Lepas Anatifera-----.-- Lepas Balanoides Phoias Dactylus---.---- Mya Truncata-.-+++- es Tellina Fervensis Pinna Pectinata........ Solen Sanguinolentus: -- Solen Legumen.---.---- Mytilus Modiolus Anonia Ephippium ---- Ostrea Opercularis - -- - - Arca Noze Chama Gigas-----+.---. Spondylus Geedaropus: - Venus Chione Donax Denticulata. -:-- Mactra Stultorum::--.- eervees er Peeeorr eerve Sealy Chiton. Banded Chiton. Duck Barnacle. Smooth Acorn Shell. Prickly Piercer. Abrupt Gaper. Brindled Tellen. Muricated Pinna. Red Solen. Pease-cod Razor Sheath. Tulip Muscle. Common English Anomia. Common English Pecten. Noah’s Ark. Furbelowed Clam. Thorny Oyster. Smooth Brown Venus. Toothed Wedge Shell. Common English Mactra. Common Eatable Cockle, .PLATE EL. 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 latus pavement Cone. 24 Conus Ebreeus -----+-- Hebrew Cone. 25 Conus Textile --------- Embroidered, or Cloth of é Gold Cone. 26 Cyprea Arabica-:-.--. Nutmeg Cowry. 27 Cypreea Moneta «------ Trussed-fowl, or Black-a- moor’s-tooth Cowry. _ 28 Cypraea Mus ---------- Mouse Cowry. 29 Bulla Terebellum --.--- Auger, or Borer Bulla. 80 Bulla Naucum -.------ White Bulla, or Dipper. 31 Bulla Lignaria --.--.-- Wood-grain Bulla. 32 Voluta Utriculus ------- Common Olive. 35 Voluta Musica.-------- Music Volute. 84 Voluta Episcopalis ----- Bishop’s Mitre. 35 Voluta Persicula --+ --- Pigmy Volute. $6 Voluta Tornatilis ------ Mouse-ear Volute. J Mawe149, Strand. J. Maave,149,« Strand . PLATE Uf. Fig. 37 Buccinum Patulum --.. $8 Buccinum Dolium $9 Buccinum Areola «+--+. 40 Strombus Auris-Diane - 41 Strombus Pes-Pelicani - 42 Murex Tribulus-------. 43 Murex Neritoideus: ---- 44 Murex Ramosus ++++s-- 45 Trochus Perspectivus - - - 46 Helix Ampullacea ----- 47 Helix Cornea «-cee-.-. Common, or Wide-mouth- ed Scoop. Ribbed Tun. Draft-board Helmet. Ass’s-ear Alatus. Pelican’s-foot Alatus. Thorny Woodcock. Mulberry. Aculeated Triplex. Staircase Trochus. Apple Snail. 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 Asinum ..--.-- 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 Striatulum -- Striated Tooth Sheil. 61 Serpula Aquaria-....-- Watering-pot Serpula. 62 Teredo Navalis -.-.---- Common.Ship Worm. 63 Sabella Belgica.------- Granulated Sabella. J Maye, 249, Strand. th . 7+ PLATE V. Shewing the ninces 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 Dactylue 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. 11 Variety of the above, sometimes called the Mineralo- gist, because it collects stones. ? oe PLATE Vu. Fig. 1 Mytilus Edulus, 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 Arca Glycimeris, shewing the inside and the hinge. § Cardium Lineatum, shewing the inside and the hinge. 9 Internal view of the Anomia Sella, (in a young ee, shewing the triangular hinge. 10 Internal view of the Tellina Virgata, shewing the hinge. 11 Internal view of the Spoiltxlds Geedaropus, chepiitie the hinge. y 12 Internal view of the Chama Cordata, shewing the : hinge. . 13 A group of Lepas Fintinnabulum. 14 A group ef Lepas Anatifera, shewing the pada. and tentacula. a W. M‘Dowall, Printer, Pemberton Row, Gough Squares J Mawe,149,Strand. cory INTRODUCTION. CHAPTER I. GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. THE 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 includes those of the sea, but also those of rivers and the Jand. 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 destitute 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 Concho- logist with the knowledge, that all shells, in their vari- ous stages of growth, assume very different appearances: in the younger, the shell is usually fragile, thin, and se mitransparent, and generally unprovided with the ribs, tubercles, ramifications, and denticulations, which are- manifest in those of maturer growth; the adults, howe- ver, as they advance in age, become thick and ponder- ous; their surface also is covered with callosities; and B & 2 INTRODUCTION, they lose that brilliancy of external coloring and marking which had characterized their earlier periods. But al- though these differences, in some instances, are sufficient to excite a considerable degree of perplexity, yet there is always a certain appearance by which the Concholo- gist will be able to distinguish the genus and species by the shells alone; for every genus and species has its generic and specific character, either in color, marks, or substance, which the shells of that genus almost invaria- bly 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 aggran- dizing 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 eoncealed beneath it. INTRODUCTION, 3 CUSTOMARY USES TO WHICH SHELLS AND THEIR INHA~ BITANTS ARE CONVERTED. Tue principal benefit derived by man from shell-fish, appears to be in the way of food. Whole countries are known to have no other sustenance for weeks together but what is the produce of the sea: and shell-fish fill no unimportant station in the immense catalogue of its pro- duct. . The nutritive and delicious food afforded by oysters, scallops, muscles, and cockles, is too well known to re- quire 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 material: 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 example, 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 order, which are worn as marks of superiority, or as brace- lets or armlets, and frequently form handsome appendages for the ears. A very extensive commerce is carried on jn 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 famous for their beauty and exquisite workmanship, B2 4 INTRODUCTION, are principally composed of iridescent shells, judiciously inlaid and blended with tortoise-shell and other sub- stances. Some species of the oyster and muscle genera are famous 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 are many of the larger species of buccina and strombi, which, after having had the apex, or extreme tip broken off, become excellent substitutes for a trum- pet or horn, and are frequently used by the New Zea- landers for that purpose. The famous Tyrian dye, so celebrated by the antients for the luxuriant purple color it gave 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. Mawe, iu his Travels through the Gold and Diamond Districts of Bra- zil, 2d edit. p. 70. ENEMIES TO SHELLS AND SHELL-FISH. Ir appears that shell-fish, besides affording food for man, are destined to suppiy other creatures also with nourish- ment. It is said that monkies are particularly fond of most species of bivalves, and 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 dan- INTRODUCTION. +) ger of trusting his paws between the shells, artfully drops a stone or two into them, which entirely prevents their being closed by the fish; by this expedient he is enabled to extract his prey without danger or difficulty, and de- vour it at his leisure. Tortoises and turtles consume numbers of shell-fish, and the strength of their jaws (as reported) is so great, that they can with facility macerate the strongest and roughest shells. Birds also, (sea-fowl especially), are great devourers of shell-fish ; and when they are unable to penetrate the shells by 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 smaller 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 remains, preying upon the fish, till it has en- * Mr. Mawe states, in his Travels in Brazil, that he saw a spot of bare granite, not more than one hundred yards square, covered with an immense number of mutilated shells: the whole neighbour- hood was rich in wood and verdure, and the sea at least five miles distant. On enquiry he was informed, that large flocks of birds eve- ry evening repaired to this place with shells left by the tide, which they let fall on the rock, in order to obtain their contents. 6 INTRODUCTION. tirely consumed it; at which period the shell opens, the crab takes his departure, and proceeds to make similar attacks elsewhere, Another species, called the hermit crab, is also sup- posed 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 therefore suspected of having previously devoured the ani- mal, and afterwards to have secured a retreat for itself in the empty shell. Shell-fish, however, are not only exposed to the vora- city of other animals, but frequently fall victims to each other. The serpulz, pholades, and anomie, affix them- selves to the shells of other genera, wherein they bore a small circular hole, to obtain access to the animal, which they feed upon, and finally destroy. 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 and 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. Wirtu 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- INTRODUCTION, 7 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 coloring 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- quently 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 sea, 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 bis shells: First. The order to which they belong, that is, whe- ther they are to class with the Multivalves, (i, e. shells of many valves); Bivalves, (shells of two valves); or Univalves, (shells of one part or piece only): which three grand divisions constitute the leading distinctions of shells. Secondly. He should be careful in placing 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 such genus; and if in the 8 INTRODUCTION. course of his studies he should be fortunate enough to obtain any hitherto undiscovered genus, species, or va- riety, he would do well to provide such an accurate de- scription and drawing, as would, by submitting them to the opinion and judgment of the scientific, confirm him in the correctness of his own conclusions, and tend to promote the general advancement of conchological know- ledge THE METHODS OF PRESERVING AND CLEANING SHELLS. Ir 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- mal to contract, and render it more easy to be extract- ed: crooked pins, and other sharp instruments, are some- times 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 mm 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- INTRODUCTION. 9 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 applied with a fine brush, dipped in sand, to the parts which require it. After the adhesions, &c. are re- moved, the shell must be immersed in alkali, to neutralize the effects of the acid, and then well washed in warm wa- ter. As these shells are not susceptible of so fine a polish as the smoother varieties, it is usual to give them an arti- ficial gloss by brushing them oyer with a weak solution of gum-arabic. Corats, 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. 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. 10 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 natur- alists 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 snail. 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 hind ones cheliforous.—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 INTRODUCTION. ij * are found in the sea, and adhere by their base to rocks, 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, with considerable force, they are enabled to eject 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 tip 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 char. acters. 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 branchiz; feelers two, approximate, feather- ed; no eyes.—The Amphitrite inhabits some species of Sabella and Serpula. 12 INTRODUCTION. Terebella.—Body oblong, creeping, naked, furnished with lateral fasciculi or tufts, and branchize; mouth pla- ced before, furnished with lips, without teeth, and pro- truding a clavated proboscis; feelers numerous, ciliated, capillary, and placed round the mouth —This animal is an inhabitant 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 arms or wing- like processes; tentacula three, besides two in the mouth. According to some naturalists, it is an animal belonging to this genus, which inhabits the Argonauta. INTRODUCTION. 13 CHAPTER III. CLASSIFICATION OF SHELLS. LINN ZUS ranks Testacea as the third order in his sixth class of animals called Worms. Hehas made three prin- cipal or grand divisions, viz. Multivalves, Bivalves, and Univalves. I. MULTIVALVES. SHELLS WITH MANY VALVES. 1. Curtron: Valves placed in transverse plaits down the back, 2. Lepas: Valves unequal; body sessile. 3. Puoxas. Shell bivalve, with accessory valves at the hinge. I. BIVALVES. SHELLS WITH TWO VALVES.—CONCHS. 4. Mya: Hinge with generally a broad thick tooth, not let into the opposite valve. 5. Soren: Shell open at each end; hinge with a single or double subulate reflected tooth, not let into the opposite valve. 14 10. 11. 12. 13. 14- 15. 16. INTRODUCTION. . Textiina: Hinge with the lateral teeth of one valve not Jet into the other. . Carpvium: Hinge with remote penetrating lateral teeth. - Mactra: Hinge with a complicated triangular mid- dle tooth, and an adjoining hollow. . Donax: Hinge witha generally remote lateral tooth, not let into the opposite valve. Venus: Hinge with generally three approximate di- varicate teeth. Sponpyuus: Hinge with two teeth, separated by a small hollow. Cuama: Hinge in one shell, with two oblique ob- tuse teeth. Arca: Hinge with numerous penetrating teeth. Ostrea: Hinge without teeth, but an ovate hollow. Avyomia: Hinge without teeth, but generally a linear depression on the rim, the beak of one valve curved over the hinge. Myrtixus: Hinge without teeth, with a subulate de- pression, and generally fixed by a silky beard. 17, Pinna: Hinge without teeth, valves united at one 18. 19. 20. end, and open at the other. Ill. UNIVALVES. 1. WITH A REGULAR SPIRE. ArGonavutTa: Shell with one cell, spiral, involute. Naurtivus: Shell with many cells, with a siphon of communication. Conus: Aperture effuse, longitudinal, without teeth. INTRODUCTION. . jis: 21. Cyprma: Aperture effuse, linear, longitudinal, tooth- ed on each side. 22. Butxa: Aperture a little contracted, and placed ob- liquely ; toothed on one side only. 23. Votuta: Aperture effuse, the pillar plaited. 24. Buccinum: Aperture with a small canal leaning to the right. 25. Stromeus: Aperture with a small canal leaning to the left. 26. Murex: Aperture with a small straight canal. 27. Trocnus: Aperture contracted, and somewhat triangular. 28. Turso: Aperture contracted and orbicular. 29. Hexirx: Aperture contracted, Junate on the inner side. 30. Nerita: Aperture contracted, and semiorbicular. 31. Hatiotis: Shell ear-shaped, aperture dilated, with a row of orifices along the surface. 2. WITHOUT A REGULAR SPIRE. 32. PaTeLua: Shell conic, the aperture widened like a basin. 83. Dentatium: Shell slender, subulate, open at both ends. 34. Serputa: Shell tubular, mostly serpentine, adher- ing to other bodies. $5. Terepo: Shell thin, penetrating wood. 36. Sapexxta: Shell composed of agglutinated grains of sand, &c. CONCH OLOGY. ORDER I. PAultivalyes. CHITON.—Coat or Matt. Animal inhabiting the shell—a Doris: Shell consisting of several segments of valves disposed down the back. THE genus Chiton ranks first in the classification of Tes- tacea, or Shells; and no less than twenty-eight species are described, some of which are exceedingly beautiful and uncommon. It is almost impossible to confuse this genus with any other of the shell tribe, for all its species and varieties coincide so nearly in their general formation and attributes, 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 peculiar form is constituted by the attachment of eight moveable valves, which are connected by a cutaneous or c 1s MULTIVALVES, — CHITON. 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 pleasure 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 coloring of the valves serve to create distinction; some being perfectly smooth, others nodul- ous, or knobbed; some beset with spines, prickles, or hairs; and others, again, are striated, dotted, and rayed, as the C. hispidus, C. squamosus, and C. marmoratus. The color of the exterior is frequently a dusky brown, often passing into different shades of olive-green: others partake of a reddish or pinkish tint; whereas some spe- cimens are of an ochreous or yellowish-white complexion ; and many have their valves adorned with elegant desigus and.marblings (not unlike tattooing) in the liveliest co- lors imaginable. The interior also admits of much variation with regard to color; however, the most prevalent is that ofa blueish- white, often beautifully diversified with cloudings of yel- low, brown, light green, and pink. The margin, which confines the valves in their proper situations, differs materially in the various species: in some instances, it is smooth and of a yellowish-brown co- lor; generally, however, it is beset with fine scales, of a green or olive color; 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 simi- larity that the Chiton has derived its name. MULTIVALVES. — CHITON, 19 The habitat or place of residence of these shells seems to appertain, indiscriminately, to all parts of the globe.— America affords the most, several are from the East In- dies, Africa supplies a few, and the Northern seas contri- bute their portion of the remainder. The Chiton, like the limpet, is often 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 Linnzeus’s Systema Nature, with the addition of some species which have been dis- covered since the publication of that work. A similar list will follow the general description of each genus.—The species found on the British coasts are distinguished by an asterisk. CHITON.—Coat of Mail. Hispidus.—Bristly. Thalassinus.— Marine. Tuberculatus:=—Knobbed. *Crinitus.— Hairy. Aculeatus.— Prickly. *Fascicularis.—Banded. Squamosus.—Scaly. Punctatus.— Dotted. Ruber.—ed. Albus.— White. Cinereus.—Ash-colored. Bicolor.— Variegated. Cerasinus.—Cherry-colored. Magellanicus.—Magellan. c2 Fuscus.—Brown. Maculatus.—Spotted. Marmoratus.—Marbled. Granulatus.—Granulated. Piceus.—Pitchy. Indus.—Jndian. Minimus.—Mealy. Cimex.—Banded. Asellus.—Millipede. Gigas.—Large. Icelandicus.—Icelandic. *Marginatus.—Marginated. * Levis. — Smooth. Amiculatus.—IJmbricated. 20 MULTIVALVES,. — LEPAS. LEPAS.—Acorn Suet, or BARNACLE. Animal—a Triton: Shell affixed at the base, and consist- ing of many unequal, erect valves. Tue genus Lepas includes thirty-two species, which,: for the most part, bear a strong resemblance to each other, at least with regard to their general formation and out- line. The most prominent feature of these shells is their be- ing (with few exceptions) of a more or less conical shape, which is acquired by a number of valves placed perpen- dicularly on a base, broad at the lower margin, and gra- dually tapering towards the summit, which is closed ge- nerally by four 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 plea- sure of the animal; which, through their medium, per- forms 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 invisible, 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 MULTIVALVES.— LEPAS. 21 of wood, which had been placed as a buoy, in a few days become 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 animalcule. The exterior of the shell is often varied in form, cover- ing, and coloring; 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 pal- mipes 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.,pol- licipes. The valves are variously diversified with striz, ridges, and grooves. 4 The ridges are mostly longitudinal; the striz, on the contrary, are transverse, and not unfrequently beset with rough projections and acute spines, as is the case in the Lepas spinosa. The color 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, asthe L. mitella and others. 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 peinted or acute form, while in other species they are blunt or obtuse. The interioer of many shells of this genus is a mere va- 22 MULTIVALVES.—— LEPAS. cuam, but in others it is either filled up with tubular pores, asin the Lepas porosa, or divided into separate compartments or chambers. Notwithstanding the great affinity that exists through- out the Lepas tribe, there are a few exceptionable spe- cies, in which a resemblance is difficult to be traced; as, for example, the L.scalpellum, L. anserifera, L. anatifera, and varieties emanating from them. These species are closely allied to each other, but ex- ceedingly dissimilar to the rest of their genus; for the generality of Lepades are affixed to other bodies or sub- stances by the base, or lower part of the shell, whereas these are attached by a stalk, stem, or pedicle, which pro- ceeds from the base of the shell to the substance that sustains it. This peculiar structure engenders the idea of comparing them to the form of certain dwarf plants, as the crocus, and others of the like description, to which, in appear- ance, they bear considerable resemblance. The stem by which the shells are supported, differs ex- ceedingly in quality and substance; sometimes it appears a smooth, film-like tube, of a texture finer and thinner than gold-beater’s skin, though somewhat lighter colored, and not unfrequently tinted with bright red or orange; and often it is dark or blueish-brown, much coarser, and wrinkled or granulated. The L. anserifera and L. anatifera, are almost invari- ably composed of five valves; they are supplied with beautiful feathery tentacula of a brown color, and ele- gantly curled. From this circumstance, probably, they were supposed to be the origin of the barnacle or brent- geese, and are therefore commonly known by the name of Goose-shells or duck-barnacles. The Lepas anserifera is sometimes found in a fossil state. MULTIVALVES,— LEPAS, 93 The Indian, American, Atlantic, and Arctic oceans, alike provide a habitat for the species of this genus; and no less than eleven of them are to be occasionally met with on the British coasts. The Lepas, in all probability, derives its name from its custom ofadhering to crags of rocks, and other projections in the sea. LEPAS.—Acorn Shell or Barnacle. A.—AFFIXED AT THE BASE TO OTHER SUBSTANCES. *Balanus.—Common Barnacle. *Tulipa.—Tulip. *Balanoides.—Small striated. Minor.—Flesh-colored. *Intertexta.—Imbricated. Verruca.— Wart-shaped. *Cornubiensis.—Cornish. Angustata.—Narrow-mouthed. *Tintinnabulum.—Bell-shaped. Porosa.—Porous. *Diadema.—Turban. Elongata.—Club-like. *Balenaris.— Whale. Patellaris.—Limpet-like. *Costata.—Ribbed. Spinosa.—Spinous. *Conoides.—Conie. Violacea.— Violet. *Testudinaria.— Turtle. Cylindrica.— Cylindrical. *Galeata.—Helmet-like. Crispata.—Rugged. *Palmipes.—Palmated. Cariosa.—Carious. Streemia.—Norwegian. B.—AFFIXED BY A PEDUNCLE. Mitella.—Mitred. *Anatifera.—Duck Barnacle. Scalpellum.—Knife-like. Aurita.—Eared. Anserifera.—Striated. Psittacus.—Parrot-beaked. Pollicipes.—Cornucopia. y 24 - MULTIVALVES.—-PHOLAS, PHOLAS.—SToNE-PIERCER. Animal—an Ascidia: Shell bivalve, divaricate, with seve- ral smaller, differently shaped accessory valves at the hinge; hinges recurved, united by a cartilage ; in the in- side, beneath the hinge, is an incurved tooth. Ir appears that hitherto only twelve species of this ge- nus have been enumerated, and some of those are soalike, that in many instances they may be considered as mere varieties, rather than different species; however, they all possess sufficient determinate characters, to prevent any admixture with the genera of Bivalves. The form of the Pholas is in most species ovate or ob- long, which is constituted by two large valves, being si- tuated 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, often determines their generic character. Another character of the Pholas is, that the valves, (i. e. the two large ones), never shut close, they are inva- riably 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 pe- culiarity of the genus. The exterior of the Pholas is generally destitute of co- lor; sometimes it partakes of a brownish cast, but the MULTIVALVES.—— PHOLAS. re5 shell is usually of a pure or dusky-white: however, the absence of color is amply compensated for by the beau- tiful 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 tex- ture 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 scarcity. 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 ex- pressing a coroding juice, in any substance which acci- dent or intent has made most eligible. Stone, clay, wood, sponge, coral, equally serve as ha- bitations for the Pholades; even the stoutest oak planks of ships’ sides are pierced by them with the greatest fa- cility. As they advance in growth, they enlarge their habitation within, leaving the small aperture, by which they originally eutered, of its primitive dimensions, there- by 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 Evropean seas supply the few species that are known. Late discoveries have proved the existence of fossil Pholades, called Pholadites. 26 MULTIVALVES, — PHOLAS. PHOLAS.-=Stone-piercer. *Dactylus.—Prickly-piercer. Orientalis.—Indian. Costata.— American pholas. Campechensis.—Campeachy. Striata.— Goose-winged pholas. Cordata.—Heart-shaped. *Candida.— White-piercer. Chiloensis.—Chili. Pusilla.—Smaill. Teredula.—Teredo. *Crispata.—Curled. Hians.— Gaping. BIVALVES.— MYA. 27 ORDER II. Bivalves, MYA.—TRUNCATE TROUGH-SHELL OR GAPER. 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 Linnezcus the first on the list of Bivalves: its species are by no means numerous, twenty-seven 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, in as much as it is differenly shap- ed; for, in the Pholas, it is long and slender, 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 ap- pearance of the bow] of aspoon or ladle. However, this sort of tooth is not always discernible in every species of the Mya, for some are entirely without 28 BIVALVES.—_ MYA. it; others, again, have two or three teeth, and, in some instances, small crenulations supply the place of a regu- lar hinge. The form of the Mya varies exceedingly, some are ob- long and truncate, as if part of the shell had been chopped off; others, again, are more orbicular or round; and ma- ny 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 re- moved, vo other appearance than that of a livid or wan- colored 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 quanti- ties 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. glycimeris, for instance, is often found from ten to twelve inches broad. Others, again, as the M. crassa, &c. are remarkable for their excessive weight and thick- ness; and their weight often appears out of proportion to their dimensions. 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. They al- so frequent alge, &c., adhering to them by a byssus or beard. BIVALVES. — MYA. 29 Some species of the Mya inhabit the East Indian seas; others are found on the coast of Africa; several are common in the European and Northern seas; and some species are to be found in the South seas; they also oc- cur in considerable abundance in the neighbourhood of Sheerness and Sandgate Creek. MYA—Gaper. *Truncata.— Truncated. Nicobarica.— Nicobar. *Declivis.—Sloping. Australis. —South Sea. * Arenaria.—Sand. Gaditana.— Cadiz. *Pictorum.—Painter’s. Corrugata.— Wrinkled. *Margaritifera.—Pearl. Rugosa.—Rough. Aurita.—Eared. Nodosa.—Knobbed. Perna.—Smooth. Norwegica.— Norwegian. Vulsella.— Tweezer. Spuria.— Spurious. Arctica.— Arctic. Glycimeris.—Great. Edentula.—Toothless, Syrmatophora.—Angular. Radiata.—Radiated. Nitida.—Glossy. Oblonga.— Odlong. Membranacea.—Membranceous. Anatina.—Duck. Byssifera.—Bearded. *Dubia.—Dubious. 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. A.THovuGH the number of species in this genus is but few, viz. twenty-four, yet their form and general appear- ance are exceedingly varied. 30 BIVALVES— SOLEN. 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 seabbard 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 abladder. 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 color, may perhaps claim admiration; but whatever beauty they may possess, they are infinitely surpassed by innumera- ble species in the other genera of Bivalves. Most of the species of Solen are found covered with a thin cuticle or epidermis, which, if not removed, renders the colors beneath obscure, and, in some instances, un- discoverable. There is only one species which is said to produce pearls, viz. S. macha. The European and Northern Seas afford by far the greatest proportion of the shells of this genus. They are, however, found in the Indian, American, and Mediter- ranean seas. The river Tees affords one species, viz, S. crispus. They often reside among zoophites. BIVALVES, —=SOLEN, 31 SOLEN—Razor-Sheath. *Vagina.—Sheath. Virens.—Green. *Siliqua.—Long brown. Diphos.— Violet. *Ensis.—Scimitar. Minimus.—Small. *Pellucidus.— Transparent. Maximus.—Largest. *Legumen.—Pease-cod. Coarctatus—Narrow. *Cultellus.—Kidney. Roseus.—Rose-coloured. Radiatus.— Violet orradiated. | Sanguinolentus.—Blood-red. Strigilatus.—Strigilated. Striatus.—Striated. Anatinus.—Duck-bill. Oriens.—Rising Sun. Macha.—Molini’s. Occidens.—Setting Sun. Bullatus.—Jnflated. *Crispus.— Undulated. Minutus.— Minute. Spengleri.—Spingler’s. TELLINA.—Tetven. Animal—a Tethys; 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 ones smooth in one valve. Amonest all the different genera of Bivalves, there is none, except the Venus, which can vie with the Tellina in point of beauty, variety, or number, which amounts to no less than ninety-four species: and whether the at- tention be directed to their elegance of form, brilliancy of color, or delicacy of structure, the eye is equally asto- nished and delighted. The usual form of the Tellina resembles a Jong pear, 32 BIVALVES. —TELLINA. 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 con- trary, are more of an orbicular, or spherical form, as the T. scobitina, &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 Tellinze to terminate in a more or less acute beak, much inaccuracy 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 exte- rior; for it is usually furnished with three teeth, the mid- dle one often 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 covered with minute strize and undulations. In some in- stances the whole surface is beset with coarse imbrica- tions or scales; but the more elegant species of the Tel- lina are chiefly remarkable for their beautiful radiations, the colors of which are rarely to be equalled in any of the other genera. As the Tellinz are most important among the Bivalves, so the sources from whence they are derived, usually abound in the different varieties they afford. The Me- diterranean, Adriatic, European and Northern Seas, and the American and Atlantic Oceans produce a great num- ber. 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. BIVALVES, — TELLINA,. 33 TELLINA. — Tellen. A. OVATE AND THICKISH. Gargadia.— Toothed. Lingua-felis.—Cat’s tongue. Virgata.—Tulip. Angulata.—Angular. Gari.— Varying. *Fragilis.—Brittle. *Depressa.— Depressed. *Crassa.—Thick. Rugosa.— Wrinkled. Inflata.—Inflated. Multangulata.—Multangular. Papyracea.—Paper. Gibbosa.— Gibbous. Inequilatera.—Jnequilateral. Knorrii.—Knorr’s Bornii.—Born’s. Pusilla.-—Minute. *Maculata.—Spotted. *Rivalis.—River. B. OVATE AND COMPRESSED. Albida.— White. Foliacea.—Foliaceous. *Planata.—Substriated. e- *Variabilis.—Purple. Levigata.—Smooth. *Radiata.—Radiated. Rostrata.—Beaked. *Inequivalvis.—IJnequivalve. *Trifasciata.—Three-banded. *Incarnata.—Flesh color’ d. Donacina.—Donavw. Truncata.—Truncated. Trilatera.— Trilateral. Oblonga.— Oblong. Splengleri.—Spengler’s. *Rugosa.—Rugged. *Cornubiensis.—Cornish. *Fervensis.—JFerroe. D Operculata.—Blushing. Hyalina.—Pellucid. Vitrea.—Glassy. Lanceolata.—Lance-shaped. Opalina.—Opaline. Coccinea.—Scarlet. Virginica.— Virginia. Alata.— Winged. Pectinata.—Pectinated. Angusta.—Narrow. Variegata.— Variegated. Madagascariensis--Madagascar. Purpurescens.—Purple. Aspera.— Rough. Triangularis.— Triangular. Lata.—Broad. Jamaicensis.—Jamaica. *Rhomboides.—Rhomboidal. 34 *Vinacea.— Tawny. Zonata.—Zoned. Albicans.— Whitish. Rufescens.—Reddish. Plana.—Plain. Striata.—Striated. Rosea.—Rose-color’d. Punicea.—Flat-striated. Complanata.—Flatiened. *Fabula.—Semi-striaied. Adansoni.—Adanson’s. Cancellata.—Cancellated. Strigosa—Striped. C. SUB-ORBICULAR. Balaustina.—Pomegranate. Remies.— Waved. Reticulata.—Reticulated. Scobitina.—Rasp. Lactea.—Milk-white. *Carnaria.—Rosy. *Bimaculata.—Double spotted. Balthica.— Baltic. Pisiformis.—Pea shaped. Divaricata.—Severed. Digitaria. — Digital. Amnica.—Transversely grooved. Fluminalis.—Ditto striated. Fluminea.— Ditto ribbed. Fluviatilis.— Ditto wrinkled. Iberica.—Spanish. Adriatica.— Adriatic. Sinuosa.—Sinuous. Purpurata.— Purple. Candida.— White. Gallica.—French. Senegalensis, —Senegal. *Cornea—Horn-colored. Angulosa.—Angular. *Lacustris.—Lake. Polygona.—Polygonal. Papyracea.—Paper. CARDIUM.—Cock te. or HEART-sHELL. Animal—a Tethys: Shell bivalve, nearly equilateral, equivalve, generally convex, longitudinally ribbed, stri- ated, or grooved, with a toothed margin; hinge with two teeth near the beak, and a larger remote lateral one on each side, each locking into the opposite. Tuts genus, though not so numerous as the last, presents BIVALVES,— CARDIUM. 35 great variety of structure and coloring. There are fifty- two species. The valves of the Cardium are for the most part of a convex, swollen, or gibbous construction, and often spher- ical; yet, in some instances, their form is elongated and compressed. 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 out- sides adorned with longitudinal ridges and grooves, cross- ed by transverse striz, 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. aculea- tum and C, echinatum; but the exteriors of some have a perfectly smooth and polished surface, as the egg-coc- kle, &c. The C. fragum and C. unedo exhibit a peculiar forma- tion, being sub-angular, and only heart-shaped when seen in a particular position, A similar coincidence is observ- able in the C. retusum, though, in other respects, it dif- fers; 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 remote lateral tooth on each side of it, each locking into its opposite. ; The C. edule, or common cockle, is found in great abundance beneath the surface on sandy coasts; the fish affords a wholesome and nourishing food. The most rare and -valuable species of the genus Car- dium, is the C. costatum or pipe-ridged cockle, which D2 36 BIVALVES, —CARDIUM. has rows of white hollow elevated ribs, situated at regu- lar distances on its surface, and proceeding in a Jongitudi- nal direction from the beaks to the margin; the inter- stices, or spaces between these ribs, are (in perfect spe- cimens) of a fine dark-brown color, 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. One species is mentioned as sometimes being found in a fossil state, viz. C. lithocardium. CARDIUM.—Cockle or Heart-Shell. Costatum.—Pipe-ridged. Cardissa.—Venus’s heart. Roseum.—Smooth-edged * Levigatum.—Smooth. Serratum.—Egg-cockle. *E dule.—Common. Retusum.—Diana’s H. [ral. Islandicum.—Islandic. Hemicardium.—Subquadrilate- Lithocardium.—Subtrilateral. Groenlandicum.—Greenland. Rusticum.—Banded. Lineatum.—Streaked. *Medium.—WMarbled. * Aculeatum.—Knotted. *Echinatum.—Rake. *Ciliare.—Fringed. Ciliatum.—Ciliated. * Tuberculatum—Tuberculated. {socardia.—Rasp. Fragum.— White Strawberry. Unedo.—Strawberry. Muricatum.—Prickly. Magnum.— Yellow ribbed. Flavum.— Yellow. Glaucum.—Glaucous. Pectinatum.—Pectinated. Virgineum.—Equilateral. Trilaterum.—Trilateral. Auricula.—Eared. Triste. —Oval. Monstrosum.—Recurved. Lima.—Asiatic. Ringens.—Toothed. Papyraceum.—Paper. /Eolicum.—Janus. Oblongum.—Oblong. Crassum.— Thick. ' BIVALVES, —CARDIUM. 37 Latum.—Broad. Amboinense.— Amboyna. *Pygmzum.—Small. Squamosnm.—Scaly. Maculatum.—Spotted. Cancellatum.—Cancellated. Flexuosum.—Fleauous. Rubiginosum.—Rusty. *F luviatile.—River. Albidum.— Whitish. Gaditanum.— Cadiz. Virescens.—Greenish. Brasilense.—Brasil. Fasciatum.—Banded. a MACTRA.—KNEADING-TROUGH. Animal—a Tethys: Shell bivalve, wnequal sided, eque- valve; middle tooth of the hinge complicated, with a small hollow on each side; lateral ones remote, and in- serted into each other. Tne genus Mactra has little to boast of, either in regard to beauty or variety. The number of species amounts only to twenty-seven, and in those no great difference of coloring or form is observable. The Mactra is usually ofa 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 wrin- kled or ribbed appearance, similar to that observed in the different species of the Cardium, but in a reverse di- rection ; the latter being ridged or plaited longitudinally, while in the Mactra, the elevations and their adjacent grooves are placed transversely. 38 BIVALVES, — MACTRA. The generality of Mactree are of a delicate construc- tion, and have asemipellucid appearance. They are, for the most part, thin, brittle, and remarkably light. The most prevailing color is blueish or yellowish- white, but some have, upon a brown ground, delicate rays of purple, heightened with rich tints of the same color: others, again, are of a brilliant lilac, passing into a deli- cate blue. The hinge of the Mactra is its best distinction from all the other genera of Bivalves, for the middle tooth is al- most invariably complicated, and of a triangular form, having a small hollow on each side; the lateral teeth are remote from the beaks and inserted into each other. The hinge, though very articulate, is remarkably thin and de- licate; in some cases, the teeth which compose it are much thinner than paper. The Mactre are mostly equivalves; in a few speci- mens 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 scas supply many of the species of Mactra. 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. MACTRA.—Kneading-trough. Spengleri—Spengler’s. Glabrata—Smooth, Plicataria—Plaited. Nitida— Delicate. Papyracea—Paper. Corallina—Banded. Striatula—Substriated. Lactea—Milky. Striata—Striated. *Stultorum—Simpletons’. Rotundata—Roundish. Grandis—Great. BIVALVES.— MACTRA, 39 *Solida—Strong. Glanca—Red-rayed. *Lutraria—Large. Pellucida—Pellucid. Cygnus—Swan. Fragilis—Brittle. Maculata—Spotted. Rugosa—Rugged. Turgida—Inflated. Nicobarica—WNicobar. Violacea—Violet. Complanata—Flat. Cuneata—Wedge-shaped. *Listeri—Lister’s. Piperata—Pepper. DONAX.—WEDGE-SHELL. Animal—a Tethys: Shell bivalve, with generally a crenu- late margin, the frontal margin is very obtuse; hinge - with two teeth, and a single marginal one placed a little behind, rarely double or triple. Tue most leading characteristic of the Donax is derived from its form, which (throughout the nineteen species) is similar to that of a wedge, being very broad and thick at one extremity, and gradually narrowing and lessening to 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 car- tilaginous 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 fre- quently create a doubt whether they should not be rank- ed among the species of the Venus; but in these cases the AO: BIVALVES.——DONAX. hinge alone must be the guide, which in the Donax is furnished with two teeth, and a single marginal one plac- ed 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 longitudinal 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 striz cross- ing each other in a longitudinal and transverse direction ; this disposition of the strize gives the shell a foliated and even a spiny appearance, as in the D. scortum and D. pubescens. A very prevalent color in this genus is a fine rich pur- ple, or purple rays on a white ground; many of the spe- cies, however, are of an olive-yellow cast, which not un- frequently 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 al- most always partakes of the coloring of the exterior; and the margin, which is generally of a high color, is al- most invariably crenulated or beset with small contigu- ous 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 profu- sion, but of no great variety; they are usually found bu- ried 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. BIVALVES.—DONAX. 4} DONAX.—Wedge-shell. Scortum—Beaked, Muricata—Prickly. Pubescens—Spiny. *Irus—Foliated. Rugosa— Wrinkled. Levigata—Smooth. *Trunculus— Fellow. Spinosa—Spinous. Striata— Striated. Incarnata—Flesh-colored. *Denticulata— Toothed. Argentea—Silvery. Cuneata— Wedge. Bicolor—Party-colored. Faba—Bean-shaped. Radiata—Radiated. Scripta—Lettered. Straminea—Straw-colored. Candida— White. VENUS.—VEnws. Animal—a Tethys; Shell bivalve, the frontal margin flattened with incumbent lips; hinge with three teeeth, all of them approximate, the lateral ones divergent at the tip. Ir has already been observed, that this genus, with re- gard to beauty, bears a decided pre-eminence over all the 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 fifty three species; and among these the variety in formation aud coloring is almost infinite: many of its species have the frontal margins of their shells somewhat flattened, and not unfrequently with the lips incumbent, The elong- ated, compressed, angular, and orbicular forms, find a place in this genus, as may be observed on inspect- 42 BIVALVES.— VENUS. ing the four following species: viz. V. literata, V. com- pressa, V. scripta, and V. tigerina. In some, the form is very much inflated, gibbous, or swollen, as in the V. ver- rucosa, V. fimbriata, and V. reticulata. 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 aud rich coloring. Others, again, have less of color and polish, but more of carved work 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 striz, 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 coloring, 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 scarce any exception, contains three teeth, all approximate or close to each other; besides these three, there is a lateral tooth, not un- frequently divergent at the tip. ‘The inner margin of the shell is sometimes crenulated. 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 also do the European and more northern oceans, Several species are found in a fossil state. BIVALVES.— VENUS. 43 VENUS. A. SHELL SOMEWHAT HEART-SHAPED. Dione—Prickly mouthed. Paphia—Paphian. Marica—Amervican. Dysera—Ribbed. Bajana—Glabrous. Excavata—Excavated. *Verrucosa—Old woman. Lapicida—Rock. Divergens—Zigzag. *Casina—Broad ribbed. Cancellata—Cancellated. *Gallina—Hen. Guineensis—Guinea. Petulca—Clouded. Flexuosa—Flexuous. Erycina—Polished. *Mercenaria— Money. *Islandica—Islandic. *Chione—Smooth brown. Maculata—Spotted. Meretrix—Lipped Leta—Globose. Castrensis—Camp. Phryne—Phryne. Meroe—WMeroe. Minuta—Small. *Deflorata—Purple streaked. Fimbriata—Cancellated. Reticulata—Netted. Squamosa—Scaly. Puerpera—Swollen. Tripla—Triangular. Plicata—Plaited. Rugosa— Wrinkled. Caliste—Dirty white. Granulata—Grained. Imbricata—Imbricated. Divaricata—Divaricated. Contraria—Contrary. Gallus—Cock. Flammea—Brown-banded. Corbicula— Yellow rayed. *Sinuosa—Sinuous. Hermaphrodita—Triangular. Coaxans—Green. Casta—Chaste. Affinis—Globose. Opima—Plump. Triradiata—Three-rayed. Nebulosa—Clouded. Contempta— Shabby. Japonica—Japan. Striata—Striated. Textilis—Brocade. Corrugata— Wrinkled. Monstrosa—Distorted. Ponderosa— Heavy. Subviridis—Greenish. Rostrata—Beaked. Fusca—-Brown. Lusitanica—Portuguese. Punctulata— Dotted. 44 BIVALVES. — VENUS. Fasciata—Banded. Carnea—Flesh-colored. Virgata—Radiated. Versicolor—Many-colored. Variegata—Variegated. Amethystina—Amethystine. Callipyga—rabian. Senegalensis—Senegal. Matadoa—Triangular. Succincta—Grooved. Compressa—Compressed. Australis—South-sea. Gigantea— Gigantic. B. ORBICULAR. Tigrina—Tiger. Prostrata—Recumbent. Pensylvanica—Pensylvanic. Spuria—Spurious. Incrustata—Decussated. Punctata—Punctured. *Exoleta—Painted. *Undata— Waved. Tumidula—Gibbous. Sinensis—Chinese. Sinuata—Sinuated. * Borealis—Scottish. Pectinata—Pectinated. Scripta— Written. Edentula—Toothless. Concentrica—Concentric. Juvenilis— Young. Histrio—Map. Globosa—Globose. Pectunculus—Painted. Albida— White. Campechensis—Campeachy. Crassa—Thick. Purpurescens—Purplish. Rubra—Red. Pusilla—Small. Violacea— Violet. Spadicea—Chesnut. Cancellata—Cancellated. Bengalensis—Bengal. * Aurea—Golden. Obscura—Dark. Purpurata—Purple. Nux—WNut-shaped. Rugata—Wrinkled. Gibbula—Lentiform. Stellata—Stellated. Italica—Mediterranean. Brasiliana—Brasilian. Pellucida—Pellucid. Holosericea—Silk. Macassarica—Macassar. Aurantia—Orange. Fulva— Yellow. Candida— White. Albicans—Whitish. Undulata— Ondulated. Lineata—Lined. Lzvis—Smooth. Cornea—Horn-colored. Guttata— Speckled. Rufescens—Reddish. BIVALVES.—— SPONDYLUS. 45 Virens—Greenish. Diaphana—Diaphanous. Maculosa—Spotted. Dura—Hard. Costata—Ribbed. Eburnea—ZIvory. Wauaria—W-marked. Lucida—Pale. Tumens—Tumid. Discors—Confused. Aculeata—Acute ribbed. C. OVATE, A LITTLE ANGULAR NEAR THE BEAKS. *Literata—Camp lettered. Cruentata—Red-spotted. *Geographica— Reticulated. Lutescens—Charactered. Rotundata—Ovate. Sanguinolenta—Blood-spotted *Decussata—Intersected. Argentea—Silvery. Virginea— Modest. Donacina—Donax-formed. Virginica— Virginia. Afra— African. *Rhomboides—Rhomboidal. Dealbata—Dead-white. Lithophaga—Stone-eater. SPONDY LUS.—Tuorny Ovster or ARTICHOKE- HEAD. Animal—a Tethys: Shell hard, solid, with unequal valves: one of the valves convex, the other rather flat: hinge with two recurved teeth separated by a small hollow. Tis genus, though containing innumerable varieties, is divided into no more than ten species, and even these, from their extreme irregularity of formation and great similarity of appearance, may often be confounded with each other. However, the most striking character 46 BIVALVES, —SPONDYLUS. of the Spondylus is, that its valves, which resemble those of the common oyster, viz. one convex, the other rather flat, have their outsides covered with longitudinal rows of erect spines or ramifications. ‘The spines are usually tu- bular, ending in a point; the ramifications or branchings, on the contrary, are flat, jagged, and patulous at their extreme terminations. The spined Spondyli, as the S. Gaedaropus, &c. are mostly of one color, as orange-red, purple, white, brown, or yellow; which colors, in fine specimens, are exceed- ingly brilliant. Those which have branches or plaits, (as the S. plicatus, &c.) have, on the contrary, a ground color of either of the above mentioned tints, and the ramifications are left en- tirely white. In some instances there is a compound of coloring, as white and brown, purple and white, &c. which gives the shell a pied or brindled appearance; and in others (es- pecially those which have a tendency to being foliated as well as branched) the upper valve is of one color, as pur- ple 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 termitiating 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 colored 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 perfect- ly earless. They are generally found adhering to rocks, corals, &c, in groups more or less numerous, often forming large BIVALVES, —.SPONDYLUS. 47 masses; and sometimes attached to shells. They are to be met with in the American, Indian, Mediterranean, and other seas. SPONDYLUS.—Thorny Oyster. Gedaropus—Thorny Oyster. Palmatus—Palmated. Regius—Royal. Spathuliferus—Pied. Aurantius—Orange. Ducalis—Ducal. Citreus—Citron. Anacanthus—Spineless. Histrix—Hedge-hog. Plicatus—Cat’s Paw. EE CHAMA.—C uamp, Cram, or SHELL. Animal—a Tethys: Shell bivalve, rather coarse; hinge with a callous gibbosity, obliquely inserted in an ob- lique hollow; anterior slope closed. Tuts genus is by no means numerous, containing only twenty-five 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. Thisspecies, which varies in size from two to five inches in diameter, bears a strong resemblance to a heart; its top being surmount- ed by beaks which wind round towards the hinge in the most graceful curvature possible. The genus Chama affords a subject for amazement ras ther than admiration, for some of its species grow to an AS BIVALVES.——CHAMA. uncommon 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 the varieties of this species, that some have been found measuring only half an inch. This species is generally more or less rib- bed and foliated, and sometimes imbricated or scaly; the usual color is a dirty white, but the rarest varieties are those which have a fine red-pink, or yellow tinge. Some of them, when perfect, are highly prized. The cartilage of the hinge has a dull brown color, 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 deserves to be noticed; like the C. gigas it varies considerably in size, and is frequently found a foot long, while some specimens do not exceed an inch; it is usually of a yellowish color, 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 be- yond the other, and of tenappearing as if deformed. The hinge has generally a callous gibbosity, inserted into an oblique hollow. The C. concamerata is remarkable for having, in the interior 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 wor- thy of admiration. © It seems a principle with the Chame, (like the spon- BIVALVES.—CHAMA. 49 dyli), to affix themselves to any extraneous substance which accident 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 par- ticular genus of shells; for the C. arcinella is most com- monly found affixed 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. The American, Indian, and Atlantic Oceans; and the Mediterranean, Caspian, and Adriatic Seas, produce in- finite varieties of this genus. The C. foliacea is found fossil in Campania. CHAMA.—C.LaAmM. A.—CLOSED. *Cor.—Fool’s Cap. Bicornis—Horned. Moltkiana—Moltkian’s. Arcinella—Hedge-Hog. Hippopus—Bear’s Paw. Concamerata—Chambered. Antiquata—Antiquated. Macerophylla—Fir-apple. Trapezia—Trapeziform. Foliacea—Leafy. Semiorbiculata—Suborbicular. Arata—Furrowed. Calyculata—Variegated. Fusca—Brown. Cordata—Heart-shaped. Citrea—Citron. Satiata—Obsolete. Thaca—Burrower. Oblonga— Oblong. Rugosa—Rugged. ' Lazarus—Jagged. Gryphica—Griffin. Gryphoides—Gryphus. Coralliophaga—Coral. B.—GaPING. Gigas—Furbelowed Clamp, Giant Clam. 50 BIVALVES — ARCA. ARCA.—ArkK. Animal—a Tethys? Shell bivalve, equivalve; hinge with numerous sharp teeth, alternately inserted between each other. Tue Area, of which there are forty-three species, are readily distinguished from other bivalves, by the pecu- liarity of the hinge; which, without exception, is com- posed of numerous sharp teeth, alternately inserted be- tween each other. The line of direction of the hinge ad- mits of two variations: in some species, as the A. Now, A. barbata, &c. it is perfectly straight; in others, as the A. pectunculus, 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 elongated, as the A. tortuosa, A. Noz, 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- cimeris and A. pilosa are sufficient examples; they are for the most part smooth on the outside, except where the longitudinal striz are placed: these striz are fre- quently more articulate in the interior than on the exte- rior, and often terminate, at the inner margin, in deter- mined elevated teeth. The shells of this genus are co- vered with a brownish or greenish-black epidermis. BIVALVES. — ARCA. ol There are many Arks which gape at the outer mar- gin; others, on the contrary, are perfectly close. Some have the margin entire ; others, again, are crenulated ; and several have prominent angular slopes, which give the shell an auriculated appearance; the anterior slope is, however, 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. The A. nucleus is found fossil, as is also the A. fossilis, in the duchy of Limbourg. ARCA.—drk. A.—MARGIN VERY ENTIRE, BEAKS RECURVED, Tortuosa— Twisted. B.—MARGIN ENTIRE, BEAK INFLECTED. *Nox—Noah’s Ark. Rostrata—Beaked. * Barbata— Bearded. Striata—Striated. Modiolus—Muscle. Pulchella—Pretty. Pella—Brittle. Afra—African. Ovata—Oval. Fossilis— Fossil. Pellucida—Pellucid. Cancellata—Cancellated. Minuta—Smaill. C.—MARGIN CRENATE, BEAKS RECURVED. *Lactea—Milky. Corbicula—Basket. Nodulosa—Nodulous. Decussata—Decussated. Antiquata—Antiquated. Equilatera— Zquilateral. Senilis—Heavy. Pallens—Pale. Granosa—Grained. Cucullus—Chambered. E2 52 BIVALVES.— ARCA. Magellanica—Magellan. Jamaicensis—Jamaica. Reticulata—Reticulated. Campechensis—Campeachy. Candida— White. Lata—Broad. Indica—Indian. Senegalensis—Senegal. D.—MARGIN CRENATE, BEAKS INFLECTED. Undata—Lettered. Nummaria—Coin. Pectunculus—Spotted. *Nucleus—Silvery. Pectinata—Comb. Rhomboidea—Rhomboidal. *Glycimeris—Orbicular. Marmorata—Mar bled. Pilosa—Downy. Angulosa—Angular. Scapha—Boat. OSTREA.—OvystTeR 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 trans- verse grooves. TuereE are no less than one hundred and thirty-six spe- cies in this genus, which present considerable variety in beauty and form. The Ostrez may be divided into two classes: the first comprises the innumerable varieties of escallops or scallop shells; the second, and much the least numerous, includes the species somewhat resembling the common oyster.— The former 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, tothe extremity of the margins, and there ter- BIVALVES.—OSTREA, 53 miuate in a fine scalloped or Vandyked outline, describ- ing in their course the most graceful expansion possible. The Ostreze are usually inequivalve, that is, the degree of convexity often differs in the two valves of the same specimen, asin the O. ziczac, O. jacobzea, &c. which ine variably have the upper valve flat, and the lower convex, However, in other species, as the O. pallium, (ducal man- tle), &c. the shells are equivalve, i.e. both possess the same degree of rotundity and gibbosity. It is remarkable, that in many of the Ostrese, the co- lors of the upper valve are brighter than those of the. lower: this is particularly observable in the O. pleuro- nectes, 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. jacobzea, &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, occasioned by one margin being straight and flattened, while the other remains round and inflated. 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, ove 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 QO. pallium and others have one ear ciliate, and are spin- ed within. 54 BIVALVES...—OSTREA. 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 colors and fine chequer-work. The ribs are mostly co- vered with undulated and transverse striz, not unfre- quently assuming the appearance of elevated scales, as in the O. imbricata and O.dubia. In others, again, the striz 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 Ostrez are generally crenated, and often beautifully colored. 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 Arca. 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: in some instances, also, they are brought to mar- ket in the state they are caught, and are eaten fresh. These shells were formerly worn by pilgrims, on their hat or coat, asa 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 dis- tinction. The scallops are found harbouring among fuci and zo- ophites: they have the faculty of leaping out of the water, and are enabled to effect a very rapid motion, by open- ing and closing their valves. The second division of Ostreze consists of those which in construction, substance, and coloring, are more nearly BIVALVES._OSTREA. 55 allied to the common or eatable oyster. The species of this division 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 color or metallic lustre diffus- ed over the surface. The hinge of some of the species, as the O. perna and O. isognomon, has a perpendicular grooved line attached toit. Some, again, as the O.vulsella, &c. gape at the hinge; others terminate in a long beak from the hinge upwards, as the O. cornucopiz and O. virginica. Some species have the appearance of a dried leaf, such as the O. folium, &c. this species often grows to the roots and stumps of trees, especially the mangrove, and is also found affixed to the gorgoniz. The common oyster (O. edulis) is too well known for its nutritious and palatable properties to require much de- scription; suffice it tosay, 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 often covered with various adhesions, such as anomia, serpule, lepades, sertularize, and other marine produc- tions. 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, occasion-- ally in clusters, affixed to rocks and other substances. In some places they are considered so profitable a branch 56 BIVALVES.—OSTREA. of traftic, that the greatest care is taken to promote their generation and growth. By proper management their multiplication becomes immense. They are often formed into large layers or beds, extending many miles; which, in fayorable seasons, prove a submarine mine of wealth to their proprietors. Almost all seas abound with Ostreee. The Ostrea di- luviana is found fossil in the calcareous mountains of Sweden. OSTREA.-—Oyster or Scallop. A.—VALVES FURNISHED WITH EARS, AND RADIATED.—Scallop. a.—Equilateral; ears of the valves equal. *Maxima—Common. * Jacobea— Mediterranean. Ziczac—Zigzag. Striatula—Faint-rayed. Minuta— Minute. Pleuronectes—Compass. Laurentii— Lorenzo’s. Japonica—Japan. Magellanica— Magellan. Hybrida— Norway. Radula—Royal Mantle. Imbricata—Imbricated. Subrotunda—Roundish. Plica—Folded, Crenata—Crenated. *Sinuosa—Distorted. Squamosa—Scaly. Dubia—Doubtful. *Subrufa—Reddish. Versicolor—Variegated. Rosea—Rosy. Fusca—Brown. Tenuis—Thin. Lutea—Muddy. Muricata—Muricated. Conspersa—Dotted. Nodulosa—Nodulous. Radiata—Radiated. Punctata—Spotted. Aculeata—Prickly. Plana—Filat. Pusilla—Minutely striated. Flavescens— Yellowish. Flabellum—Fan-like. Spondyloides—Spondylus. Violacea— Violet. Aurantia— Orange. Vittata—Filleted. Miniata—Red-spotted. Inflata—Inflated. BIVALVES, — OSTREA. Ey. b.—Ears unequal; one of them generally ciliated, with spines within. Pallium—Ducal Maztle. Sanguinolenta—Blood-spot. Maculosa—Spotted. Nodosa—Duch’s Foot. Pes-felis—Cat’s Foot. Pellucens—Pellucid. Obliterata— Worn. Sanguinea—Scarlet. *Varia—Diverse. *Pusio—Wrinkled. *Obsoleta— Obsolete. *Levis—Smooth. *Glabra—Glabrous. *Opercularis—Painted. Gibba—Gibbous. Sulcata—Furrowed. Histrionica—Harlequin. Islandica—TIslandic. Triradiata—Triple-rayed. Fuci—Fucus. Tigrina—Tiger. Septemradiata—Seven-rayed. Arata—Furrowed. Senatoria—Senator. Citrina—Ciiron. Turgida—Swollen. Sulphurea— Sulphur. Porphyria—Porphyry. Vitrea—Glassy. Tranquebarica—Tranquebar. Sauciata— Unequal-rayed. Crenulata—Crenulated. Innominata— Grooved. Rufescens—Reddish. Squamata—Scaly. Anonyma—Anonymous. Decemradiata— Ten-rayed. Tenuis—Thin. Valentini— Valentine’s. Media— Middle-sized. Crocea—Saffron. Florida—Rose-spotted. Ochroleuca—Ochraceous. Mustelina—Fly-spotted. Flammea—Flame-colored. Incarnata—Flesh-colored. Guttata—Speckled. Depressa— Depressed. Regia— Royal. Palliata—Variegated. Seminuda—AHalf-covered. Modesta—Modest. Principalis—Chief. Versicolor— Variegated. c.—Valves more gibbous on one side. Flavicans— Yellow. Fasciata—Banded. Fragilis—Brittle. Lima—File. Glacialis—Icy. Hians—Gaping. Excavata—Hollow. 58 BIVALVES. —OSTREA. B.—RouGH, GENERALLY PLAITED ON THE OUTSIDE.—Oyster. Malleus—Hammer. Plicatula—Plaited. Vulsella—Tongue-shaped. Rostrata—Beaked. Anatina—Duck. Virginica— Virginian. Diluviana—Antediluvian. Cornucopie—Horn of plenty. Folium—Leaf. Parasitica—Parasitical. Orbicularis—Orbicular. Exalbida— Whitish. *Edulis—Common. Cristata—Crested. Semiaurita—Half-eared. Senegalens's—Senegal. *Striata—Striated. Stellata—Stellated. Fornicata—Vaulted. Ovalis—Oval. Sinensis—Chinese. Papyracea—Paper. Spondyloidea—Spondyloid, Annulata—Annular. Forskalii—Forskael’s. Retusa—Retuse. C.—HINGE WITH A PERPENDICULAR GROOVED LINE. Perna—Oblong. Legumen—Pod-shaped. Isognomon—Rudder. Alata— Winged. Ephippium—Saddle. Mytiloides—Muscle-like. Picta— Painted. Torta—Twisted. Pes-lutree—Oiter’s-foot. ANOMIA.—Anomria orn 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, inequivalve, one of BIVALVES.——ANOMIA. 59 the valves flaitish, 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. Or this curious genus of Bivalves, fifty-one species are described ; but several out of that number have hitherto only been found in a fossil state. 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 Anomiee differ materially in form, some resem- bling the shape of an oyster, as the A. cepa, A. ephip- pium, &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. pectinata, &c. Many of them, when seen 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. 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 cal 60 BIVALVES.— ANOMIA. losities, 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 mar- gin is frequently crenated, notched, or toothed, but in many it is perfectly entire. The prevailing color in this genus is that of a dirty yellow, or dusky white; however, some are bright yel- low, 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. sanguinolenta exhibit a beautiful pink or red coloring. The A. flexuosa, and other similar species, have a dingy or olive black color, and a few are found of a shining jet black. Some of the Auomiz are almost smooth; others, on the contrary, are ribbed and striated, as the A. spinosa and A. muricata, which are 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 Anomiz 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 polishing, that it is frequently made use of by the in- genious Chinese as a substitute for glass. The European, Indian, American, and African oceans, supply many species of the Anomia, as also do the Medi- terranean and Northern seas. No less than fifteen or sixteen species are met with in a fossil state; which are chiefly found in England, Ger- many, and Switzerland. BIVALVES,—— ANOMIA,. ANOMI A.—Anomia. Craniolaris—Orbicular. *Pectinata—Comb-like. *Ephippium—Green onion-rind. *Cepa—Onion-peel. Electrica—Small amber. *Squamula—Scale-like. Patelliformis—Limpet-like. Scobinata—Rough. Aurita—Eared. Retusa—Blunt. *Gryphus—Griffin. *Pecten—Pectinated. Striatula—Striated. Dorsata—Keeled. Psittacea—Parrot-beak. Tridentata— Three-toothed. Spondyloides—Spondyloid. *Truncata—Truncated. Reticularis—Reticulated. Plicatella—Plaited. *Crispa— Wrinkled. *Lacunosa—FPitted. ~ Pubescens—Downy. *Cuspidata—Pointed. Farcta—Subglobular. 61 Caput-serpentis—Snake’ s-head. *Terebratula—Lamp. Angulata—Angular. Histerita—Three-lobed. Biloba—T'wo-lobed. Ventricosa—V entricose. Gryphoides—Griffin-like. Flexuosa—Flexuous. Rugosa—Rough. Placenta—Chinese window. Sella—Saddle. *Spinosa—Spinous. Aculeata—Prickly. Muricata—Muricated. Squama—Scaly. Punctata—Punctured. Undulata— Undulated. Capensis—Cape. Detruncata—Partitioned. Sanguinolenta—Scarlet-rayed. Vitrea—Glassy. Cranium—Ventricose. Cilindrica—Cy lindrical. Nucleus—Oval. Avenacea—Pyriform. Sandalium—~Sandal. 62 BIVALVES. — MYTILUS. MYTILUS.—Moscte. Animal allied to an Ascidia: Shell bivalve, rough, gene- rally affixed by a byssus or beard of silky filaments ; hinge mostly without teeth, with generally a subulate, excavated longitudinal line. Or the genus Mytilus there are enumerated sixty-four species; though some of these are a little indistinct in character, yet the greatest proportion of them bear a near alliance to the general form and habits of the common or eatable muscle. There are, indeed, some exceptions, such as the M. crista-galli (cock’s-comb oyster), and the M. margaritiferus (true mother-of-pearl shell,) and others of a similar description; most of which give strong evi- dence of belonging to the Ostrea, rather than the Myti- lus 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 coloring; others are elegantly radiated with purple and white, like a tulip; and some again are coarsely ribbed and grained with minute turbercles, and of one color only, such as black, blue, green, yellow, or brown. Most of them are indebted to their epidermis for whatever outward color they may possess; when this BIVALVES.— MYTILUS. 63 is removed, so different a surface is often presented, that even an adept might be puzzled to recognize two shells of the same species. In some specimens the epidermis is bearded or shaggy. Ina 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 polish- ed) afford the brightest radiance possible. The M.mar- garitiferus is admired for the iridescent colors it displays, and is, moreover, 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 canscarcely 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 the sea. A few species, on a superficial glance, might be mistaken as belonging to the genus Mya; viz. the M. versicolor, M. discors, and M. afer; 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 isfound in immense beds or layers, con- sisting of many myriads. The M. crista-galli, &c. form exceptions to the general habits of the shells of this genus, for they attach them- selves to Gorgonia and other bodies by a formation of the shell itself, which has the appearance of several dis- tinct claws or hands. 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 colors. 64 BIVALVES.——MYTILUS. The Indian, Atlantic, American, and Northern oceans produce many species; some are also from New Zealand, the Mediterranean, Russian, and Red seas. MYTILUS.— Muscle. A.—PaRASITICAL, AFFIXED BY CLAWS. Crista-galli--Cock’s-comb Oyster. Hyotis—Gt. finger Muscle. Frons—Leaf. B.—FLAT, OR COMPRESSED: SLIGHTLY EARED. Margaritiferus— Mother of Pearl. Unguis—Nail. C.—VENTRICOSE OR CONVEX. Lithophagus—Burrowing. Rugosus—Rugged. Bilocularis—Two-celled. Exustus—Rose-colored. Barbatus—Bearded. *Edulis—Eatable. *Incurvatus—Incurved. Pellucidus—Pellucid. *U mbilicatus— Umbilicated. *Curtus—Short. Ungulatus—Oz-hoof. Bidens—Furrow-cap. *Modiolus—Smooth. *Cygneus—Swan. * Anatinus—Duck. Viridis—Green. Ruber—Red. Albus— White. Ater—Black. * Discors—Discordant. Hirundo—Swallow. Pholadis—Pholas. Striatulus—Cross Beak. Vulgaris—Small. Plicatus—Plaited. Niveus—Snowy. Afer— African. Smaragdinus—Emerald-green. Versicolor— Variegated. Coralliophagus—Coral-piercer. Lineatus—Lined. Faba—Bean. Fluviatilis—Fluviatile. Fuscus—Brown. Mammarius—Mammillary. Persicus— Persian. Pictus—Painted. Fasciatus—Banded. BIVALVES.— PINNA. 65 Undatus— Waved. Stagnalis—Fresh-water. Purpureus—Purple. Zellensis—Geenish-yellow. Saxatilis—Rock. Roseus—Rosy. Argenteus— ae DENTALIUM.—Toortu or Tusa ELL. Animal—a Terebella: Shell wnivalve, tubular, straight, or slightly curved, with an undivided cavity open at both ends. Or this singular genus there are but twenty-two species; they are very similar in form, and resemble an elephant’s tusk in miniature. They differ principally in magnitude, and in the num- ber of ribs and grooves with which some of the species are marked; a trifling distinction may also be made with regard to the degree of curvature which many of them possess. UNIVALVES, — DENTALIUM. 133 One of the largest and most valuable species is the D. elephantinum; it is often three or four inches long, slightly curved, and has generally ten strong, elevated ribs, which are encircled by dark green bands ona green- ish ground; it inhabits the Indian and European seas. The D.aprinum and D. striatulum closely resemble the D. elephantinum, but the former is usually much smaller, and perfectly white. The latter is longer and narrower in proportion, and the larger aperture is angular, and the smaller very contracted and round; besides, it is supplied with eight ribs and eight strize; and its color is more uni- formly green. The D. rectum, though nearly allied to the D. ele- phantinum, is a straight shell, and therefore easily dis- tinguished from it. It is also adorned with doubled or trippled longitudinal strize, which at the same time are encircled with annular ones. The D. fasciatum isa 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. politum, (which is finely pointed, solid, and often of a ro- sy or pinkish color), the D. eburneum, and the D. en- talis, which is an inhabitant of the Indian and European shores, and is generally an inch and a halflong, of a red- dish or pale yellow color, and the tip often tinted with orange or pink. 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 color, very nar- row and thin, and does not effervesce in acids. It is an inhabitant of the Northern seas, and about two inches and a quarter long. 134 UNIVALVES.— DENTALIUM. The D. minutum inhabits the Mediterranean; it isa 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 neigh- bourhood) is also a minute species, and is by no means common. The fossil species of the Dentalia are the D. sexangulum, and D. fossile, both from Loretto; and the D. annulatum, D. radula, D. interruptum, and D. vitreum, from Piedmont. The recent species are mostly from the Indian and Eu- ropean oceans; though some few are from the Mediter- ranean and Northern seas, and one species inhabits the shores of Africa, DENTALIUM.—Tooth-Shell. Elephantinum--Elephant’s tooth Interruptun—ZInterrupted strie Aprinum— White-ribbed. Politum—Polished. Arcuatum—Curved. Eburneum—Ivory Tusk. Striatulum—Striated. *Entalis—Dog’ s-tooth. Sexangulum—sSiz-ribbed. Arietinum—Lam’s-tooth. Dentalis—Slightly curved. Corneum—Horny. Fasciatum—Banded. Nebulosum—Clouded. Rectum—Straight. Pellucidum—Pellucid. Fossile—Fossil. Vitreum—Glassy. Annulatum—Round. Minutum—Minute. Radula—Decussated. *Imperforatum—ZJmperforated. UNIVALVES.——SERPULA. 135 SERPULA.—W orm-SuHELL. Animal—a Terebella; Shell univalve, tubular, generally adhering to other substances ; often separated internally by divisions at uncertain distances. Tue genus Serpula contains forty-eight 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, zoophites, sertulariz, fuci, shells, corals, &c. They are invariably tubular, and present themselves some- times isolated, either straight or twisted, but more fre- quently 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 instanced the S. spirillum, S. spirorbis, and S. afra; which have their whirls nearly contiguous, and resemble the Helices. Of the straight species, the S. protensa and S. poly- thalamia are sufficient examples; the latter of which most probably belongs to the genus Teredo: it is remark- able for having its interior separated by imperforated convex and concave 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 separate 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 136 UNIVALVES.-—SERPULA. sands: it sometimes attains the extraordinary size of three feet. 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 per- forations, and generally a longitudinal one in the middle, the whole encircled by a dilated margin of elegant papy- raceous 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 sometimes exceeds half a foot in length. The S. lumbri- calis is a flexuous shell, with a spiral acute tip, and very much resembles a cork-screw. The S. filograna is branched and complicated, and is adorned with a beauti- ful kind of net work, One of the remarkable species of this genus is the S. anguina, which has a slit or long-jointed cleft, along the spiral convolutions of its shell. The S. echinata has its shell beset with a succession of spines or prickles; it is usually of a rosy or pink color, and sometimes has its aper- ture margined. The S. cornucopiz, or horn of plenty, is, in all proba- bility, only a dropped Helix hortensis, or common garden snail, and of course not belonging to this genus. TheS. infundibulum appears as if its first bend was composed of five funnels, inserted within each other. The S. denti- culata is sometimes found in the Lepastintinnabulum; and the S. sulcata adheres to the roots of the fucus digitatus. The S. lagena is exactly like an oil-flask, and the S. re- torta is retort shaped; the latter is scarce. The S. incur- vata something resembles the Nautilus semilituus, but it wants the internal concamerated structure. The S. nau- UNIVALVES.—SERPULA. 137 tiloides is a spiral shell, flattish, minute, and is furnished with thin, semilunar, internal divisions. The colors of the Serpule are various; the most gene- ral, however, are brown, purple, yellow, tawny, pink, and white, sometimes a little greenish. The S. semilu- num and S. Melitensis are found fossil; the latter in Malta. The Indian, African, American, and Northern oceans supply many species; as also do the European, Mediter- ranean, Adriatic, and Red seas. SERPULA.—Worm-Sheil. Nautiloides—Nautilus-like. Semilunum—Small Seed. Planorbis—Flat, Spirilum—Minute spiral. *Spirorbis—Tapering spiral. *Triquetra—Three-sided. * Intricata—Intricate. Filograna—Fasciculate. Granulata—Grained. *Contortuplicata— Twisted. Glomerata—Glomerated. Lumbricalis—Cork-screw. Polythalamia—Many-tubed. Arenaria—Solitary rose. Anguina—Serpent. *Vermicularis—Round. Aquaria— Watering-pot, Echinata—Prickly. Ocrea—Boot. Protensa—Lengthened. Decussata—Decussated. Proboscidea—Proboscis. Afra—African. Cereolus—Bougie. Cornucopie—Horn of Plenty. Goreensis—Goree. Intestinalis—Jntestine. Infundibulum—Funnel. Pyramidalis—Pyramidal. Denticulata—Toothed. Melitensis—Malta. Norwegica—Norway. Porrecta—Ascending. Vitrea—Brittle. Cancellata—Grooved. Stellaris—Rayed. Gigantea—Great. Cinerea—Ashy-colored. *Sulcata—Furrowed. *Ovalis—Oval. 138 UNIVALVES. —TEREDO, *Reflexa—Reflected. *Lactea—Milky. *Cornea—Horny. *Lagena— Oil flask. *Bicornis—Semilunar. *Retorta—Retort-shaped. *Perforata—Perforated. *Incurvata—Incurved. TEREDO.—Snare-Worm. Animal—a Trerebella, with two calcareous hemispherical valves cut off before, and two lanceolate ones: Shell ta- pering, flecuous, and capable of penetrating wooed. Tuere are but threespecies of this genus: the first is the T. navalis, or common ship-worm; it is very thin, cylin- drical, and smooth, and is more or less twisted, and rather obtuse or blunt at the tip; it varies in length from four to six inches. This worm was originally imported from In- dia, 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 so- lid; it is found in wood that has lain some time under water. It is white, subpellucid, very much bent, and gradually tapering, 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 seminal vessels of the xilosteum granatum; one end is clavate, the other incurved, narrower, obtuse, and perfo- rated in the middle: the shell is rough, and brownish on the outside, but within it is smooth, and more or less flexuous. !t is nearly two inches long, but not half an inch wide. UNIVALVES, —SABELLA. 139 TEREDO.—Ship- Worm. *Navalis—Common. Utriculus— Timber. Clava—Club-shaped. SABELLA.—Sasetta. Animal—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. Turis very extraordinary genus contains no less than twenty-five species. The membrane which composes the basis of these animals, is covered with various frag- ments and particles of different marine and vegetable pro- ductions. The S. vegetabilisand S. arundinacea are covered with fragments of twigs, the bark of stems, or reeds, and brok- en 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 the S.scabra is affixed by the base. The S. alveolata has numerous parallel tubes, commu- nicating by an aperture, forming in the mass the appear- 140 UNIVALVES, —SABELLA. ance of honey-combs. It is an inhabitant of the Europe- an coasts, and covers the rocks for a considerable space, and is easily broken under the feet. The tubes are straight- ish, and from two to three inches long. The S. rectan- gula 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 affixed to stones, &c. ‘The other species are from the Indian, American, Northern, and European seas. SABELLA. Scruposa— White-sandy. Scabra—Rough. * Alveolata—Honey-comb. Chrysodon—Pebble. *Belgica—Granulated. Rectangula—Rectangular. Capensis—Cape. Nigra—Black. Stagnalis—River. Conica—Conic. Uncinata— Hooked. Sabulosa—Gravel. Vegetabilis— Vegetable. Ammoniata—Ammonites. Helicina—Helix. Dimidiata— Divided. Fixa—Stony. Clavata—Club-shaped. Corticalis—Bark. Arundinacea—Reed. Aculeata— Twig. Marsupialis—Sooty. Norwegica— Norway. Lumbricalis—Cork-screw. Indica—ZIJndian. THE END. Se ates “ia