18 CYMATIUM. 



T. DORSUOSUS, A. Ad. 



A Japanese species, not yet figured. No dimensions given. 

 Assigned by the author to this group. The Latin diagnosis, as 

 usual, is worthless for the purpose of identification. It is simply 

 the cabalistic ceremonial through which Mr, Adams becomes 

 invested with the title to a specific name ; it does not and cannot, 

 and perhaps never was intended, to define his property with 

 sufficient accuracy to prevent trespass on his rights by others ; 

 therefore it becomes a trap for the unwary and ambitious. On 

 the other hand the indefiniteness of the usual diagnosis permits 

 its author the greatest latitude in. shifting its object from species 

 to species ; or, if he is enterprising, in capturing some of the 

 species diagnosed at a later date by his brother conchologists. 

 As a rule, I will not attempt to identify unfigured species, and 

 would like to exterminate all such descriptions and names for 

 the benefit of science. 



Submenus Cymatmm, (Bjlten) Adams. 



This group is well distinguished by the trigonal form of the 

 shell of the typical species, large varices and nodules, Opercu- 

 lum with initial point at its apex. 



T. FEMORALE, Lillll, PI, 10. fig. 70. 



Yellowish brown ; the principal revolving ribs white where 

 they cross the varices ; aperture white, light purplish or roseate 

 within. Length, 3 to 7 inches. West India Islands. 



Reeve mentions that the varices of this species suggested the 

 gadroon border used by silversmiths for the decoration of plate. 

 The epidermis is very thin, somewhat bristly. The initial point 

 of the operculum is apical. 



T. TIGRINUS, Brod. PL 10, fig. 71, 72. 



Yellowish brown, tinged more or less with dark brown between 

 the revolving ribs. Length, 4'5 to 6*5 inches. 



W* Co. Central America; 11 fathoms in sanely mud. 



A wider, smoother species than the preceding, with simpler 

 sculpture. When full-grown, the outer lip spreads out, making 

 the body whorl very wide. 



T. Ranzanii, Bianconi (fig. 71) from Mozambique, E. coast of 

 Africa, appears to be the same species. 



