Nerita Exuvioides Trechmann (Mollusca: Gastropoda) From the Gatun Formation of Panama

Abstract

Due to their preference for a rocky littoral habitat, examples of fossil nerites rank a close second to hen's teeth. Therefore, it was a pleasant surprise to see a rather well preserved specimen found in the Gatun Formation of Panama by Robert H. Stewart, formerly geologist for the Panama Canal Company (now retired). First examination of the specimen yielded even more remarkable results for it became obvious that it is not even vaguely related to any New World members of the genus now living but is most closely related to the Philippine N. exuvia Linn., a form with extremely heavy spiral cords. The specific name that immediately came to mind was "exuvioides."