"About thirty-five years ago an elderly friend gave my daughter, Linda, a box of unnamed shells. Attempting to identify the shells proved to be more difficult than anticipated. When reviewing the literature we found many inconsistencies in nomenclature. A simple task to name fifty shells led me to pursue Molluskan nomenclature in general. This index is the result of that endeavor. References to descriptive information, drawings and photographs are included in the index. It is my desire this information will be helpful to others. Any non-commercial use of material presented here is welcome. Since this is a work in progress, additions and revisions will be added from time to time."

- Ralph Lawrence Body