VITKINA. 51 



Genus II. VITRINA. 



V. PELLUCIDA (transparent). 



Spheroidal, very thin, transparent, green ; spire scarcely 

 raised ; mouth large. 



The Vitrinas are a link between the slugs and snails 

 proper. They have the same tooth formation and 

 mantle as the slugs, while their shells resemble those 

 of the Helices. 



Our pretty little English species is found in almost 

 all parts of the British Isles. This shell, like a bubble 

 of clear greenish-tinted glass, is a truly beautiful 

 object, especially when set out on white cardboard or 

 with a background of cotton wool. Two varieties are 

 found, but the shell is very uniform. I have, however, 

 a specimen taken in the north of Ireland with two milk- 

 white bands running in a spiral direction from apex to 

 mouth. 



Under a lens, or even with the naked eye, the ope- 

 ration of breathing can be well observed. In autumn, 

 winter, and early spring, especially after rain, our little 

 friend is abroad on dead leaves and among moss. 



Var. I. depressiuscula. Oval and flatter on both 

 sides. 



Var. II. Dilwynii. Globular, spire produced. 



