Distinguishing Characteristics |
Bivalve (2 shells); shell sturdy, slightly inflated, elongate; anterior end longer and broadly rounded; posterior end short, more angular; bottom edge of posterior end slightly angled upward, margin straight; beak pointed; shell color varies from yellow, rose, pink, pale blue, lavender, tan, brown, and orange, sometimes with radiating bands of color, sometimes with purple interiors; shells have fine concentric and radial ridges, radial ridges stronger on posterior end; posterior ventral margin crenate (scalloped), inside ventral margin crenulate. |
Similar Species |
The Texas coquina is smaller (<0.8 cm), more inflated, ventral margin is more rounded, left valve overlaps right valve on ventral margin, and its posterior ribs are lightly beaded. |
Habitat |
Gulf, bury just beneath the surface of the sand in the surf and shallow subtidal zones |
Maximum Size |
2.5 cm (1 in) |
Other Common Names |
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Previous Scientific Names |
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