45 



members of the community. They are found in consider- 

 able numbers on the rocky shores all along our coasts. 



6. Potamides ebeneum, Brug. 



This is a much larger animal than any of the preceding, 

 and, although frequently eaten, is more often used as bait 

 by amateur fishermen. It abounds on the extensive mud 

 and sandy flats of Port Jackson and other inlets of the 

 coast, and may be gathered in quantities at low tides. 



7. Triton australis, LaiiK 



Formerl)^ plentiful in crevices under shelving rocks on 

 the seaboard. Seldom used as food, perhaps from its 

 scarcity. It is a fine handsome shell, and attains com.para- 

 tively a large size. 



8. Mytilus hirsutus, Lam. 



This bivalve, frequently known as the " Mussel," is found 

 in large quantities, growing together in masses on the rocky 

 shores often left dry by the tides, but also at a considerable 

 depth. When roasted it has much the same flavour as an 

 oyster treated in the same way, and is esteemed by many 

 people. It may be cooked in a variety of v/ays, as clams 

 are in America, 



9. Anomalocardia trapezia, Desk. 



Usually known as " Clams," &c. ; this species is quite 

 equal to the well-known clam of America. It is to be 

 regretted that it is not more in use as an article of food in 

 the colonies. Numbers may be taken by trawling over the 

 sandy flats at the mouths of the Hunter and Paramatta 

 rivers, &c., or at low tides by wading among the sea-grass 

 (Zostera) nearer the shore. 



