Distinguishing Characteristics |
Bivalve (2 shells); shell wedge or fan-shaped, slightly inflated, very fragile, translucent, beak pointed; color greenish to tan; hinge area long, straight, slightly concave near beak; 30-40 thin radial ribs becoming smoother near ventral (opposite hinge) end; fine sawtooth serrations covering most of shell; interior muscle scar well below edge of nacreous (shiny) layer. |
Similar Species |
Differs from the stiff pen shell which has its interior muscle bordering the edge of the nacreous layer. Differs from the half-naked pen shell by having more ribs (30-40 vs. 10-15) and having smaller tube-like spines. |
Habitat |
Gulf and bay, sandy to muddy bottoms |
Maximum Size |
30.5 cm (12 in) |
Other Common Names |
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Previous Scientific Names |
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