68 



U. S. BUREAU OF FISHERIES 



All the oysters forming a '* pillar " are very long and narrow. The 

 lowest one, which supports the whole column, is partially embedded 

 in sand ; its hinge end is very narrow and beak-shaped. Live oysters 



FiGUEB 8. — Cluster of coon oysters from Bear River, Ga. Actual size, 20.3 b.v 16.5 

 centimeters (8 by 6.5 inches) 



are found along the sides and on the top of the reef, the interioi- 

 of the entire mass consisting of dead shells. Few mussels were found 

 attached to oyster shells; they play but an insignificant role in (he 

 formation of the reef. 



