EMYS HIEROGLYPHICA. 1J3 



the neck. Below these hnes are two broad yellow bands, also beginning behind 

 the orbit; these communicate by a vertical band passing over the anterior part of 

 the t)Tnpanum, and are afterwards continued along the neck. A small yellow line 

 begins on each side, beneath the nostrils, and is continued to the middle of the 

 upper jaw; another line of similar colour goes from the centre of the chin and 

 extends across the throat, from the posterior part of which is extended, along the 

 lower jaw and neck, another broad band, continuous at the articulation of the 

 jaw with the band passing down from the orbit; on the throat is another large 

 blotch, from which are extended posteriorly one or two yellow lines. 



The colour of the anterior extremities is dark brown in front, with a large 

 yellow longitudinal band above, extending throughout, and one or two smaller and 

 less extensive below. The posterior extremities are dark brown, with large 

 longitudinal yellow bands along the nates and posterior part of the thighs, and 

 smaller ones on the superior surface of the thigh and leg; on the inferior surface 

 of the thigh and leg are several veiy extensive yellow bands and blotches, all 

 ending at the tarsus; the membrane between the toes is marked with a longitu- 

 dinal yellow line; the tail is dark brown above and below, with two longitudinal 

 yellow lines. 



Dimensions. Length of shell, 12 inches; of sternum, 9| inches; breadth of shell, 

 7 inches; elevation of shell, 3 inches; length of tail, 3 inches; length beyond the 

 vent, H inches. 



Geographical Distribution. It is found in our western waters. Professor 

 Troost, of Nashville, Tennessee, furnished me with a beautiful living specimen 

 from the Cumberland river. 



Habits. I know but little of the habits of this animal, but from the form of 

 its extremities, it appears to be eminently aquatic. 



General Remarks. I have been led to give the specific name hieroglyphica, to 

 Vol. I.— 15 



