.............mystery solved. I believe it is a "desmophyllum dianthus" A deep sea solitary coral. Thanks to all for your help. Ed Tory ---------------------------------------------------------------------- [log in to unmask] - a forum for informal discussions on molluscs To leave this list, click on the following web link: http://listserv.uga.edu/cgi-bin/wa?SUBED1=conch-l&A=1 Type your email address and name in the appropriate box and click leave the list. ----------------------------------------------------------------------