Dear David,
Bivalved gastropods of the genera Julia and Berthelinia are all associated
with green algae of the genus Caulerpa. In fact the shell form and colour of
both Julia and Berthelinia look like the leaves of Caulerpa.
Although the first recent species was described already in 1862, a
description of the living animal was  published only in 1959. During the
late fifties and the early sixties numerous short articles dealing with
bivalved gastropods have been published.
Julia exquisita Gould, 1862 seems to have a very large distribution. I do
not think it was already known from Sri Lanka, but it has been reported
already from nearby India.
A related species is Julia zebra Kawaguti, 1981with a bicoloured shell.
----- Original Message -----
From: David Kirsh <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Monday, January 08, 2001 9:58 PM
Subject: Re: bivalved gastropod?


> That's it, Guido! (Unless, there're similar species with which it can be
> confused). Anyone know about these creatures?
>
> Thanks,
> David Kirsh
> Durham, NC