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RHIZORIDAE |
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Volvulella tragula (Hedley, 1903) Description: Shell resembling that of some ovulids, involute (last whorl enveloping previous whorl), tall, length more than twice width, posterior end drawn out to a sharp peak, sides gently convex, becoming straight-sided in large specimens. Surface smooth, with spiral grooves around base and sometimes anterior end. Aperture extends whole length of shell, narrow in top half, wider below. Columella narrow, with long thin umbilical slit behind in some specimens. Shell translucent when fresh, becoming opaque white. Size: Up to 5.5 mm in length. Distribution: Known from Caloundra, Qld, southwards to at least Tasmania. Habitat: Beach washup down to 120 m. Uncommon. Comparison: Distinguished from V. rostrata by the drawn out posterior end. Fig. 1: Off Port Jackson, NSW, in 110 m (C.98863). Fig. 2: 5-8 miles (8-12 km) of Port Kembla, NSW. (C.16487 HOLOTYPE). |
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