A comprehensive synopsis of the Recent Pleurotomariidae, covering all 24 valid species and 2 subspecies, with new, full-colour plates of all extant holotypes plus many representative specimens and variations. Text covers geographical distribution, habitat, shell structure and colouration, and chronological taxonomy. There is a full discussion of synonomy and phylogeny. Included are numerous text illustrations, SEM plates of radula, and in situ pictures taken from submersibles. A magnificent reference.