Società Malacologica Italiana 1874-1906

The Società Malacologica Italiana was established in Pisa in 1874 to promote the study of extant and fossil molluscs in Italy through publications, meetings and other activities. During its life, the society had 120 members (including four institutions) and published a journal, Bullettino della Societa Malacologica Italiana. Between 1875 and 1899, 20 volumes were issued: papers mostly concerned Italian malacofauna. After almost 30 years this research line seemed to have dried up, and without generational turnover, the society dissolved between the end of 1906 and early 1907. A detailed survey of the organization, activities and membership provides an interesting picture of a malacological society in the late 1800s.