Arca ocellata, also known as the Ocellated Ark, is a species of marine bivalve mollusk belonging to the family Arcidae. This species is notable for its distinctive appearance and its significant role in the marine ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
Arca ocellata exhibits a characteristic elongated, oval-shaped shell with a distinctive, slightly curved outline. The shell’s surface features a series of prominent, radiating ridges that create a unique textured pattern. These ridges are typically adorned with a series of round, brown spots, or “ocelli,” which give the species its common name. The shell’s color can range from pale brown to a darker, more reddish-brown hue. This bivalve can attain a maximum size of around 6 centimeters in length.
Habitat and Occurrence
Arca ocellata is primarily found in the intertidal and subtidal zones of various marine environments. This species is particularly prevalent in sandy and muddy bottoms, where it often burrows into the sediment for protection and to access food. The Ocellated Ark typically occurs at depths ranging from the intertidal zone to around 20 meters. Arca ocellata is commonly found in the neritic zone, which encompasses the shallow waters extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Arca ocellata is classified within the phylum Mollusca, belonging to the Class Bivalvia. This class comprises a diverse group of marine, freshwater, and terrestrial mollusks characterized by their two-part shells. Within the class, Arca ocellata is further categorized within the Order Arcida, which consists of a group of bivalves known for their generally robust, elongated shells. Finally, this species belongs to the Family Arcidae, a family of bivalves characterized by their generally elongated and often slightly curved shells.
Feeding
Arca ocellata is a filter feeder, meaning it obtains its food by straining microscopic organisms and organic particles from the surrounding water. This process occurs through the use of specialized gills that trap food particles as water flows through them. This feeding strategy makes Arca ocellata a significant player in the marine ecosystem, contributing to the removal of organic matter and the cycling of nutrients within its environment.
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