48 



BIVALVES PINNA, 



scales or spines. The colors of Piiiuse admit of some va- 

 riation, though they usually have a horn-like appearance, 

 which is often overcast with a steel-blue or copper-colored 

 gloss. The hinge of the Pinnse is invariably without 

 teeth, notwithstanding which, the valves adhere so close- 

 ly in the region of the beaks, that they appear as if unit- 

 ed m one. There are some of the juniors of this genus 

 that do not exceed an inch in lengthy whereas some of 

 the adults grow to more than three feet. 



This genus is famous for producing a very fine sort of 

 byssus or beard, which it affords in large quantities ; and 

 the Italians frequently convert it into sundry articles of 

 wearing apparel, which in appearance vie with the finest 

 silk. These shells are usually found in smooth water and 

 bays, with the smaller end sticking in the mud or sand, 

 and the wide end somewhat open. The animal, in some 

 instances, is accounted excellent and luxurious food. 



The Mediterranean produces Pinnse in great number: 

 they are also to be found in the Indian, American, At- 

 lantic, and European oceans. The Adriatic and Red Seas 

 also supply some species. The Pinna, probably, derives 

 its name from its resemblance to a wing, or fin of a fish. 



PINNA. 



