European Prickly Cockle – Acanthocardia echinata

, European Prickly Cockle - Acanthocardia echinata, Acanthocardia echinata

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The European Prickly Cockle (Acanthocardia echinata) is a species of bivalve mollusk found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean. This cockle is characterized by its distinctive, spiky shell and is a common sight in various marine environments. It is a popular target for fishing and is considered a delicacy in some regions.

Description & Characteristics

The European Prickly Cockle (Acanthocardia echinata) is a medium-sized bivalve, typically reaching a maximum size of around 8 centimeters in length. The shell is heart-shaped and exhibits a characteristic rough, bumpy texture due to the presence of numerous spines. The shell color can vary from white to pale brown or reddish-brown, often with intricate patterns and striations. The interior of the shell is smooth and pearly white. The European Prickly Cockle (Acanthocardia echinata) possesses a muscular foot, which it uses for burrowing into the seabed.

Habitat and Occurrence

The European Prickly Cockle (Acanthocardia echinata) is a marine species commonly found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, from the Mediterranean Sea to Norway. This species prefers sandy and muddy bottoms in shallow to moderate depths, typically ranging from 10 to 100 meters. It often occurs in large aggregations in the neritic zone, a marine zone that stretches from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.

Taxonomy

The European Prickly Cockle (Acanthocardia echinata) belongs to the Class: Bivalvia, Order: Cardiida, and Family: Cardiidae. This family comprises numerous species of cockles, all sharing distinctive heart-shaped shells. The Bivalvia class encompasses all mollusks with two hinged shells, while the Cardiida order specifically refers to cockle species.

Feeding

The European Prickly Cockle (Acanthocardia echinata) is a suspension feeder, meaning it obtains its food by filtering water through its gills. It primarily feeds on plankton, tiny organisms that drift in the water column. The cockle uses its siphon to draw in water, which is then passed over the gills where food particles are trapped and consumed. The remaining water is then expelled through a separate siphon.

Associated Species

Image References

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