The richness and variety of coloring of the
Liguus has led to the recognition and naming of
many species, subspecies, forms and varieties. The following tables
are an attempt to list the known described species, subspecies,
varieties and color forms. Listing of Liguus is in
three parts or tables consisting of the South Florida populations,
the Cuban populations and the populations of Hispaniola.
The type of the genus: Liguus virgineus (Linnaeus, 1767)
This is the only species of Liguus
found on the island of Hispaniola, commonly called
the "Virgin Liguus", it is avidly used
by crafters in creation of shell art. The wholesale destruction
of the forests and commercial overcollecting to supply the shell
art trade
will eventually be the demise of this mollusc.
Comments and/or suggestions on the classification of the Liguus are welcome and needed. This site will be continuously modified as new information is compiled and verified.
Please send comments to: ejpower@ix.netcom.com
