In my home town (Merritt Island) you cannot take a picture of a man with a
wooden leg.  Do you know why not?
 
I've written several  items related to dealing with what I referred to as
"microshells."  Several collectors whose principal interest is micros have
commented.  It struck me today that it might be interesting to understand
what everyone has in mind when they hear "microshells"  and to have a
common understanding of what we are discussing when we refer to "micros."
The Astronaut Trail and Jacksonville Shell Clubs both have categories for
their shows identified as "Miniatures."  (I didn't lookup any of the other
clubs.)  And I believe there is (or once was) a trophy devoted to this
category.  Their definition of "Miniature" is "one inch (25mm) or less,
mature shells."  When I use the word "Micro" I think of any shell about
15mm or less, mature or not.  To me "micro" should relate only to size.
The techniques/difficulties of identification, handling, preservation, etc.
relate to size, not maturity.
 
So, the discussion objective is to establish an understanding of what we
all mean when we speak of microshells -- to develop a definition for this
discussion group.
 
1.  How big is a "Microshell?"
2.  Should the definition be limited to mature shells?
3.  Is there a standard out there of which we (I) am unaware?
4.  A camera works better than a wooden leg.
 
Budda say, "He who laughs last thinks slowest."
 
Marlo
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