210 



GASTEROPODA. 



The Cowrie-Shells (Cyprced), many of which form the ornaments of our 

 chimneypieces and the gems of our cabinets, are of very peculiar structure. 

 In the earlier period of their growth they much resemble the Cones mentioned 



FIG. 217. TIGKK COWKIE (O/' ;v < ' ll ' / A' ?/ -' 1 ). HA Hi 1 {liar f>(i veitLruosu), A.NU CLOTH-OF-GoLD 

 CONK {Coitus tc'.v tihs). 



nbove ; but when they have arrived at a certain size, the mantle of the con- 

 i. lined Mollusk spreads over the entire external surface, and covers it with a 

 1'orcellanous coat quite different in colour from the original shell, and this, 



FIG. 218. YOUNG COWRIE. 



FIG. 219. MONEY COWRIE, ADULT. 



joined to the changed appearance of the opening, might cause the adult to be 

 mistaken for a different species. 



The cowrie-shells are employed by Asiatic islanders to adorn their dress, 

 to weight their fishing-nets, and for barter. Specimens of them were found 

 by Dr. Layard in the ruins of Nimroud. The Money Cowrie (Cyprcea moneta} 



