Table 5.

Microscopic diagnostic keys to the five TTCMs.

1. The drug powder with prismatic layer fragments and nacreous layer fragments.

2. Nacreous layer fragments imbricate or in dune shape.

3. Transverse section view of prismatic layer fragments 15–85 μm in length, 4–20 μm in width…………………..….. Haliotidis Concha.

3. Transverse section view of prismatic layer fragments 24–200 μm in length, 6–50 μm in width………….……….. Margaritifera Concha.

2. Nacreous layer fragments in long strip or plate-like.

4. Transverse section view of prismatic layer fragments 15–100 μm in length, 6–22 μm in width………………………… Ostreae Concha.

1. The drug powder without distinct prismatic layer fragments and nacreous layer fragments.

5. Some fragments with bulgy radiated ribs and fracture minute hairs…………………………………………………..…… Arcae Concha.

5. Some fragments in shape of bamboo raft…………………………………………………………………………….... Meretricis Concha.