Aydin,

I might add to this to test the bleach solution first on just a couple of
shells to make sure it doesn't harm the periostracum and then after drying
the shells you might want to rub some mineral oil or silicone lubricant on
them to help maintain the perio.  I have also used WD-40 - a test I have
been running since the 1990s).  So far it seems to work well with no
discoloration.

Tom E.

--------------------------------------------------
From: "Charles Sturm" <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Friday, September 07, 2012 6:54 AM
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Subject:      Re: [CONCH-L] Fungus on shells

> Aydin,
>
> The technique that I have used is to put on a surgical mask, brush off
> most of the fungus, wash the shells in a weak bleach solution, then dry
> them out and keep them dry. I had a similar problem and now run a
> dehumidifyer where I store my collection. An alternative would be to store
> them in a plastic box with a desiccating agent.
>
>
>> Most of the shells in a large lot of Neohelix albolabris have developed
>> patches of a fungus growing on the periostracum (no, it's not Byne's
>> disease).
>> They have been stored in a humid basement. What would be the best way to
>> clean
>> the shells?
>>
>> Aydin Orstan
>>
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>
>
> Regards,
> Charlie
> .................................................
> Charlie Sturm
>
> Treasurer
> American Malacological Society
>
> Research Associate - Section of Mollusks
> Carnegie Museum of Natural History
> Pittsburgh, PA, USA
>
> Associate Professor - Family Medicine
> Fellow-American Academy of Family Practice
> Fellow-Academy of Wilderness Medicine
>
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