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Data are presented on the composition of identifiable molluscan shell debris from the surface of supralittoral strand-line accumulations from three topographically distinct coastal sites and aspects on the Isle of Cumbrae, Scotland sampled in summer and winter. Interpretation of these death assemblages, termed taphocoenoses, is given with reference to the biology and distribution of the same species living on- and off-shore and prevailing physical conditions at each site. Understanding such relationships allows the reconstruction of fossil deposits of dead shells, termed thanatocoenoses. The significance of dead-shell accumulations as carbon sinks has relevance to current modelling of climate change.