Animal. See Castalia.

Shell. Usually very thick, nacred within, covered with epidermis, corroded at the summits, which are dorsal and subanterior; dorsal hinge formed by a double precardinal tooth, more or less compressed, irregularly dentated on the left valve, and simple on the right, together with a long lamellous tooth under the ligament: ligament external, dorsal, and postapicial; two muscular impressions, well marked, besides those of the retractile muscles. The species of this genus grow more numerous daily; they are found in all countries, but particularly in North America. One hundred and sixty-seven defined species. Numerous fossil.

The following species are American:

2. Genus Hyria. Pl. [VIII].

Animal. As above.

Shell. Solid, nacred, equivalve, obliquely triangular, auriculated; base straight and truncated; hinge with two projecting teeth, the cardinal divided into numerous radiations, anterior ones smaller, the others lamellar and long. Inhabits the lakes and rivers of America. Two species.

Note.—Alasmidonta. Separated by Say from the Anodonta by its primary tooth, and from the Unio by being destitute of the lamelliform teeth.