The orientation of the calcite crystals grown on the subnacreous layer of Ostrea gigas Thunberg and Anomia lischkei Dautzenberg et Fischer was observed with electron and optical microscopes, and was discussed in relation to the horizontal growth direction of the shells. In marginal regions, one of the rhombohedral axes of the calcite, agreeing with the direction of growth of mineral lamellae, was alike in the horizontal growth direction of the shell, and in the regions where growth pyramids occurred radiated spirally or directly outwards from its top. The orientation in a whole valve may be determined by the elongation and tension of the mantle, and affected by the disposition of adductor and pedal muscles. The author thanks to Drs. T. Sudow and Y. Omori of Tokyo University of Education, and Dr. I. Taki of Hiroshima University for their valuable advices.
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