Talochlamys multistriata

Talochlamys multistriata, the dwarf fan shell, is a species of bivalve scallop. It is a marine mollusc in the family Pectinidae.

Distribution

This species is found around the marine [molluscs">marine (ocean)">marine [molluscs of South Africa|southern African] coast, from Saldanha Bay to Delagoa Bay, in less than 20 m of water.

Description

This animal grows up to 35 mm in length. It is a small bivalve with a single ear-like protrusion at the hinge. Its shell is finely ridged longitudinally and variably coloured from yellow to purple.

Ecology

The dwarf fan shell lives under stones and among algae. If disturbed, it can swim by clapping its valves together.