THE SMOKE SHELLS Genus TYPHIS, Montf.
Shell ovate or oblong, with projecting hollow tubes between the three spinose varices; aperture roundish, prolonged into closed siphonal canal; operculum as in Murex. Species: fifteen recent, eight fossil. Distribution, warm seas, Tropical America, Cape of Good Hope, Indian Ocean, Pacific Islands, China, Australia.
The Large Smoke Shell (T. grandis, A. Ads.) is a repre sentative species of this small genus. The ascending tube contains an extension of the mantle margin. The varices are broad, fluted, fin-like, forming a wing on either side of the basal canal. The
whorls are angled, the tubes short. Length, 11 inches.
Habitat. — Gulf of California.
The Smoke Shell (T. tetrapterus, Bronn) is distinguished by the four fin-like expansions on the canal, which broaden into wing-like varices below the upcurving hollow tubes that adorn the spire. Length, i inch.
Habitat. — Mediterranean Sea.
The Smoke Shell (T. longicornis, Dall) has a very long, straight anterior canal, a steep spire set with many upturned tubes, and two or more pointing downward on the body whorl. Length, to i inch. Gulf of Mexico.