Barbatia stearnsii, commonly known as Stearns’ ark shell, is a species of marine bivalve mollusk belonging to the family Arcidae. This species is characterized by its distinctive shell and its presence in specific marine environments.
Description & Characteristics
Barbatia stearnsii exhibits a robust, elongated shell with a distinct, pointed umbo (the highest point on the shell). The shell is generally brown to grayish-brown in color, often exhibiting intricate, radial ribs that run from the umbo to the shell’s margin. The shell can reach a maximum length of approximately 6.5 centimeters (2.6 inches) and typically possesses a thick, solid hinge line.
Habitat and Occurrence
Barbatia stearnsii is a common inhabitant of the intertidal zone and shallow subtidal regions, typically occurring in depths ranging from the low tide mark to approximately 30 meters (98 feet). This species is particularly fond of rocky reefs and sandy bottoms, often found clinging to rocks or buried in the sediment. It prefers areas with strong currents and moderate wave action. Its distribution extends along the Pacific coast of North America, from British Columbia, Canada, to Baja California, Mexico. Barbatia stearnsii is a prominent presence in the Neritic zone, the marine environment extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf, further highlighting its importance in these coastal ecosystems.
Taxonomy
Barbatia stearnsii belongs to the Class: Bivalvia, Order: Arcida, and Family: Arcidae. This classification places it among a group of bivalves characterized by their strong, often thick shells, and their burrowing or attaching habits. The Arcidae family, to which Barbatia stearnsii belongs, encompasses a diverse array of species that play crucial roles in marine ecosystems worldwide.
Feeding
Barbatia stearnsii is a filter feeder, relying on microscopic organisms and detritus suspended in the water column for sustenance. Using its gills, it actively filters water, extracting food particles and expelling the remaining water. This feeding strategy makes Barbatia stearnsii an important contributor to the cycling of nutrients within its marine environment.
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