PORT PHILLIP BAY


Bivalve Mollusc 

Modiolus delinificus Iredale, 1924

View scientific description and taxonomy

Scientific Details

This large and diverse family is represented in Victoria by approximately 20 species. Some species are gregarious and may be the most conspicuous animals on the sea shore. Mussels are characterised by an elongate shell, with the umbo situated at the anterior end, with the posterior area expanded, hinge teeth often not evident. Most species have a well developed, thick periostracum, and are attached to the substrate by a byssus.

Taxonomy

Phylum:
Mollusca
Subphylum:
Conchifera
Class:
Bivalvia
Subclass:
Pteriomorphia
Order:
Mytiloida
Family:
Mytilidae
Genus:
Modiolus
Species:
delinificus

General Description

This large mussel has a very elegant shell that is thin and elongate. Valve rounded apex (umbo) near anterior end, and the posterior area expanded. Exterior is brown, shiny, with a lighter radial ray. Interior is white. Shell up to 11 cm across.

Biology

This species has been incorrectly recorded as other species in this genus group of animals.

Habitat

Low tide level to depth of 50 m.

Coastal shores

Distribution guide

Southern Australia.

Species Group

Sea snails and shells › Bivalves

Depth

Shore (0-1 m)
Shallow (1-30 m)
Deep ( > 30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

11 cm

Diet

Organic matter

Commercial Species

No

Conservation Status

  • DSE Advisory List : Not listed
  • EPBC Act 1999 : Not listed
  • IUCN Red List : Not listed

Author

article author Boyd, S.

Sue Boyd is an Honorary Associate in marine invertebrates at Museum Victoria.

citation

Cite this page as:
Boyd, S., 2011, Bivalve Mollusc, Modiolus delinificus, in Taxonomic Toolkit for marine life of Port Phillip Bay, Museum Victoria, accessed 13 Nov 2019, http://portphillipmarinelife.net.au:8098/species/5623

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