Donax striatus, commonly known as the Striated Donax, is a species of small, saltwater clam that belongs to the family Donacidae. It is a common and widespread species, inhabiting a variety of sandy shores along the Atlantic coast of Europe.
Description & Characteristics
Donax striatus is a small clam, typically reaching a maximum size of about 3 centimeters. Its shell is oval-shaped with a distinctive, slightly curved outline. The exterior surface of the shell is characterized by a series of fine, parallel ridges or striae, hence its common name. These striae are usually white or cream-colored and can be quite prominent, giving the shell a striated appearance. The color of the shell can vary from white to pale yellow or even light brown, often with darker brown or gray markings. The interior of the shell is smooth and white.
Habitat and Occurrence
Donax striatus is a predominantly intertidal species, meaning it lives in the area between the high and low tide marks. It is typically found on sandy beaches with a moderate wave action. This species can tolerate a wide range of salinity and temperature conditions, making it a versatile inhabitant of the intertidal zone. Donax striatus is often found in high densities, particularly in the lower intertidal zone where there is more water and less exposure to air.
The species’ distribution extends along the Atlantic coast of Europe, from southern Norway to the Mediterranean Sea. Donax striatus is a common sight on sandy beaches in countries such as France, Spain, Portugal, and the United Kingdom. It is generally found in the infralittoral zone, the area of the marine environment that extends from the low tide mark to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Donax striatus belongs to the Class: Bivalvia, Order: Cardiida, and Family: Donacidae. Bivalves are a large and diverse group of marine mollusks, characterized by their two-hinged shells. Cardiida, the order to which Donax striatus belongs, includes a variety of bivalves that are typically wedge-shaped or heart-shaped. The Donacidae family, also known as the Donax clams, is a group of marine bivalves that are adapted to living in sandy environments.
Feeding
Donax striatus is a filter feeder, meaning it obtains its food by filtering tiny organisms and particles from the surrounding water. Like other bivalves, Donax striatus has specialized gills that trap food particles from the water column. These food particles are then transported to the mouth and ingested. Donax striatus primarily feeds on plankton, algae, and other microscopic organisms that are suspended in the water.
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