Codakia tigerina, also known as the tiger lucine, is a species of saltwater clam, a marine bivalve mollusc in the family Lucinidae. It is a relatively common and widely distributed species, inhabiting various marine environments across the globe.
Description & Characteristics
Codakia tigerina is a relatively small clam, with adults typically reaching a maximum size of around 3.5 cm (1.4 inches). The shell of Codakia tigerina is characterized by its distinctive tiger-like stripes, which are typically a combination of white, brown, and yellow. These stripes are often irregular and can vary in width and intensity depending on the individual. The shell is also somewhat flattened, with a smooth, slightly rounded exterior.
Habitat and Occurrence
Codakia tigerina is a common inhabitant of sandy and muddy bottoms in the intertidal and subtidal zones. It is typically found in shallow water, with a depth range that extends from the low tide mark down to approximately 30 meters (98 feet). The species is widespread across the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the western Pacific Ocean. This distribution encompasses various marine zones, from the tropical to the subtropical. Codakia tigerina thrives in areas with moderate wave action and abundant food sources.
Taxonomy
Codakia tigerina belongs to the class Bivalvia, which comprises a diverse group of aquatic molluscs that possess a hinged shell. This class is further classified into various orders, with Codakia tigerina being a member of the Lucinida order. This order includes clams with distinctive features like their hinged shells and the presence of gills used for respiration and filter feeding. Within the Lucinida order, Codakia tigerina is part of the Lucinidae family, which consists of clams characterized by their rounded shells and their symbiotic relationship with bacteria that assist in nutrient uptake.
Feeding
Codakia tigerina is a filter feeder, meaning it obtains its food by filtering microscopic organisms and organic particles from the surrounding water. It accomplishes this by drawing water into its mantle cavity, where specialized structures trap the food particles before they are transported to the mouth. The symbiotic bacteria residing within the tissues of Codakia tigerina play a crucial role in nutrient uptake, particularly nitrogen fixation. These bacteria convert nitrogen gas from the water into usable forms, contributing significantly to the clam’s overall nutrition.
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