Distinguishing Characteristics |
Bivalve (2 shells). shell oval to subtriangular, inflated; color whitish or yellowish, many times with variable brownish zigzag design, interior white to yellowish with brown mottling; fine commarginal growth rings with weak radial lines; ridge from beak to posterior margin; beak with central (cardinal) tooth flanked on either side by split lateral teeth. |
Similar Species |
The shape and teeth pattern help identify it as a cockle. Most other cockles (except the egg cockles) have strong radial ridges. The regular egg cockle (L. serratum) is more elongate and the painted egg cockle (L. pictum) has a more lobsided shape and no radiating lines. |
Habitat |
Bay, sandy or muddy bottoms |
Maximum Size |
2.5 cm (1 in) |
Other Common Names |
Morton's egg cockle |
Previous Scientific Names |
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Comments |
Common duck food. Species can jumb and swim. |