General Description

The shells of this species are small, solid, ovate to rectangular. There are about 15 radial ribs, each crossed by numerous flat ridges, with spaces between ribs covered with fine concentric lines (striae). Shell white with a brown external coating (periostracum). Rounded apex (umbo) a little in front of midline. Shell up to 2 cm across.

Biology

Like other representatives of this family group, the Carditidae, this species uses internal fertilisation to reproduce, brooding the young inside the parent body.

Habitat

In sand in areas of sea grass.

Soft substrates

Seagrass meadows

Distribution guide

South-eastern Australia.

Species Group

Sea snails and shells › Bivalves

Depth

Shallow (1-30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

2 cm

Diet

Organic matter

Commercial Species

No

Species Code

MoV 181

Conservation Status

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