Paratapes textilis

Paratapes textilis is a species of saltwater clam, a marine bivalve mollusk in the family Veneridae, the Venus clams.

Description

Shell of Paratapes textilis can reach a length of, with a maximum length of. These shells are elongate, elliptical-ovate and moderately inflated, with rounded margins. The outer shell surface is smooth, glossy, pale yellowish-white, with pale purplish grey inverted V-shaped markings. Hinge is narrow, with three radiating cardinal teeth.

Right and left valve of the same specimen:

Distribution

This species is present in Indian Ocean and in South Africa.

Habitat

These bivalves live on sandy bottoms or attached to rocks, at depths of up to 4 metres.