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Abstract

The student of Conchology in Tasmania labours under
tnlliny disadvantages, owing to the circumstance that the
descriptions of the various species inhabiting our waters are
scattered widely in various publications of Europe and
America, while nearly half of the number of the principal type
species are deposited i n foreign museums, and are therefore
inaccessible for purposes of reference to local students.
Before we can rest satisfied with the existing classification
of many species there is much careful work to be done; for it
is well known that the specific descriptions of the earlier
distinguished collectors who accompanied expeditions to our
seas, are often too meagre to satisfactorily distinguish or
separate them from many allied distinct species subsequently
discovered.
It would be well, therefore, to follow the example of
New Zealand, in making up a duplicate collection of our
shells as complete as possible. and thereafter submit one of
them to a well-known European authority like Ed. Von Martins, who would critically examine and compare them
with original types in European collections, and submit
a critical report for the guidance of local workers.
In conclusion, I may add that this contribution can only be considered merely as a provisional aid to students of
Tasmanian Conchology ; but it is hoped it may serve a useful
purpose until such time as a more complete work makes its
appearance.
Includes artifical key to the families adn classified list of species, also includes tabulated synopsis of classes, orders and sub-orders, and plate.

Item Type:	Article
Authors/Creators:	Johnston, Robert Mackenzie
Keywords:	Royal Society of Tasmania, Van Diemens Land, VDL, Hobart Town, natural sciences, proceedings, records
Journal or Publication Title:	Papers and Proceedings of the Royal Society of Tasmania
ISSN:	0080-4703
Collections:	Royal Society Collection > Papers & Proceedings of the Royal Society of Tasmania
Additional Information:	In 1843 the Horticultural and Botanical Society of Van Diemen's Land was founded and became the Royal Society of Van Diemen's Land for Horticulture, Botany, and the Advancement of Science in 1844. In 1855 its name changed to Royal Society of Tasmania for Horticulture, Botany, and the Advancement of Science. In 1911 the name was shortened to Royal Society of Tasmania.
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