>The technique uses a self-clinching cable tie of an appropriate length for
>your shell.  These are available at any hardware store.  The strength and
>flexibility of a plastic tie will allow it to snake its way up into the
>whorls of the shell without breaking or kinking.

Now, THAT is a good idea! it should work for removing opercs of
animals retracted into the spire and dried there... once the animal
is rehydrated by soaking.

I'm gonna try it with a 3cm Syrinx... I can SEE the operc's shadow
when held against a light, but no way would it shake out.
--
Andrew Grebneff
Dunedin, New Zealand
64 (3) 473-8863
<[log in to unmask]>
Fossil preparator
Seashell, Macintosh & VW/Toyota van nut
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I want your sinistral gastropods!
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Opinions in this e-mail are my own, not those of my institution
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A: Because it reverses the logical flow of conversation.
Q: Why is top posting frowned upon?