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The Eupleuras

Genus EUPLEURA, H. and A. Ads.

Shell ranelliform, with two prominent, and intermediate smaller varices; aperture toothed within. Five species. Distribution, West Indies, Atlantic coast of United States and Panama.

This confusing genus has the shell of a Urosalpinx, the teeth of a Murex, the varices of a Ranella, and the operculum of a Purpura. Tryon considers it intermediate between Murex and Ranella.

E. caudata, Say, is the type. The shell is white to dark brown, reddish brown within. There are five whorls, each shouldered, forming a steep spire, with nine stout vertical ribs, crossed by fine, close spiral lines. Usually there are two prominent varices, opposite each other. These are sometimes reduced to small size. The lip is thick and set within a border of raised granules. The animal is white except the yellow foot. Length, 1/2 to 1 1/2 inches. Distribution, Massachusetts Bay to Georgia.

E. Tampaensis, Conr., is more robust, with sharper ribs and shorter canal. Varices scarcely distinguishable. Length, 1 inch.

Habitat.--West Coast of Florida.