Semimytilus algosus


Semimytilus algosus is a species of mussels. A common name for this species is Dwarf mussel. It is the first species where trioecy was reported in the phylum Mollusca.

Size

Individuals can be up to in size.

Reproduction

In the past this species was described as simultaneous hermaphroditic but it was later confirmed the species is trioecious. It is believed this species evolved from a gonochoric ancestor.

Occurrence

Its habitat is rocky shores. The species has been found off the coasts of South Africa and is native to Chile. The species is also invasive off the coast of Angola and Namibia.