PORT PHILLIP BAY


Bivalve Mollusc 

Anisodonta subalata (Gatliff & Gabriel, 1910)

View scientific description and taxonomy

Scientific Details

The shells of this small family are small (to length 10 mm) quadrate or ovate shape with well developed hinge, and a partly internal ligament.

Taxonomy

Phylum:
Mollusca
Subphylum:
Conchifera
Class:
Bivalvia
Subclass:
Heterodonta
Order:
Veneroida
Superfamily:
Cyamioidea
Family:
Sportellidae
Genus:
Anisodonta
Species:
subalata

General Description

Shells of this species are elongate, rectangular and white. They are expanded posteriorly and have a weak keel which extends from the rounded apex (umbo) to the posterior ventral margin. Exterior sculpture is of numerous fine concentric lines (striae), more prominent posteriorly, with area below apex (umbo) smooth. Shell up to 8 mm across.

Biology

The larvae of this species have shells and have been seen growing-up within the adult shell, attached by their byssal threads. Earlier authors included this species in a different family group, the Hiatellidae.

Distribution guide

South-eastern Australia, excluding Tasmania.

Species Group

Sea snails and shells Bivalves

Depth

Shallow (1-30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

8 mm

Diet

Organic matter

Commercial Species

No

Species Code

MoV 1564

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, Anisodonta subalata, in Taxonomic Toolkit for marine life of Port Phillip Bay, Museum Victoria, accessed 09 Oct 2024, http://136.154.202.208:8098/species/5596

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