Chama sarda is a species of marine bivalve mollusk, commonly known as the “Sarda Chama”. It is a prominent member of the Chamidae family, known for its distinctive and often colorful shells.
Description & Characteristics
Chama sarda is characterized by its irregularly shaped shell, often exhibiting a rough and bumpy texture. The shell can reach a maximum size of around 8 centimeters in length. The colors of the shell can vary, with shades of white, brown, and orange being common. They are often found attached to rocks, coral, and other hard substrates in their marine environment.
Habitat and Occurrence
Chama sarda is found in a variety of marine environments, typically inhabiting shallow, rocky reefs and seagrass beds. Their distribution is particularly concentrated in the Indo-Pacific region, where they are a common sight in tropical and subtropical waters. Their presence is often noted in the neritic zone, which encompasses the shallow coastal waters extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Chama sarda is classified within the phylum Mollusca, belonging to the Class: Bivalvia, Order: Venerida, and Family: Chamidae. This classification places it within a group of marine bivalves known for their often colorful and elaborate shells, sharing characteristics with other members of the Chamidae family.
Feeding
Chama sarda is a filter feeder, obtaining its nourishment by filtering water for food particles. They utilize their gills to trap phytoplankton and other small organisms from the surrounding water, contributing to the health of their marine environment.
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