PLATE XV. 



MuREX Purpura alata, testa triangularis transversim costata 

 trifariam frondosa, frondibus alatis membranaceis instructa cauda 

 recta clausa, labro latissimo, labio adnato, apertura subovata, fauce 

 alba. Chemn. Conch. IQ.yi 1538, 



This is a shell far more remarkable for the singularity of its 

 growth, than for any elegance or beauty of its colouring. The 

 peculiarity of its character consists in the large, erect, and longitudinal 

 foliations, which are disposed in three distinct, and nearly equi-distant 

 series throughout the whole length of the shell : for they appear in 

 continuity upon every whorl, from the base to the apex. It is from 

 this peculiarity that the species has obtained the very appropriate 

 appellation of foliatus, or Foliated Rock Shell. 



In point of colour, as before observed, the Murex foliatus is 

 not particularly conspicuous, and they are of a texture so delicate 

 that it almost constantly occurs in a bleached or depauperated state; 

 it is also a very fragile shell, and from this cause very liable to be 

 broken. When in fine condition, as in the example selected, for the 

 representation now before us, the general hue is a lacteal white; the 

 body of the shell, externally, a deep tawny, with the foliations whitish, 

 and the opening, or mouth of the shell, very delicately tinted with a 

 violaceous hue. Sometimes the foliations have the appearance of fine 

 whit€ porcelain. 



This is esteemed a scarce shell, and very rarely occurs perfect, 

 or in a living state. Found on the sea coast of North America. 



