Exact translation of even the Psalm 58:8 verse is uncertain, as are
many of the Biblical references to particular plants and animals.

Phonecian purple dye was produced from muricids, providing many
indirect reference to mollusks in mention of purple cloth.  (exact
translation of colors mentioned in ancient texts is surprisingly
problematic, but muricid dye can give a range of blue to purple shades
depeding on the exact treatment used).  However, by New Testament
times, some people in the region of Lydia discovered that the indigo
plant produces the same dye.

Pearls are another frequent indirect reference to mollusks.

--
Dr. David Campbell
425 Scientific Collections
University of Alabama
"I think of my happy condition, surrounded by acres of clams"

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