Laevicardium brasilianum, also known as the Brazilian cockle, is a species of marine bivalve mollusk belonging to the family Cardiidae. It is a common and widespread species found in the coastal waters of the western Atlantic Ocean.
Description & Characteristics
Laevicardium brasilianum is a medium-sized bivalve, typically reaching a maximum size of about 60 millimeters. The shell is heart-shaped, as is typical of the Cardiidae family, with prominent ridges and a smooth, glossy surface. The color of the shell can vary from white to yellowish-brown, often with reddish-brown markings. The interior of the shell is white, with a smooth, pearly luster.
Habitat and Occurrence
Laevicardium brasilianum is a benthic species, meaning it lives on the seabed. It is typically found in sandy or muddy bottoms, inhabiting the intertidal zone and the subtidal zone, down to depths of about 50 meters. This species is primarily found in the western Atlantic Ocean, with a distribution range that extends from North Carolina, USA, to Brazil. It is a particularly common species in the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. This species can often be found in both the neritic and oceanic zones, depending on the specific location and depth.
Taxonomy
Laevicardium brasilianum belongs to the Class: Bivalvia, Order: Cardiida, and Family: Cardiidae. This family, known as the cockle family, is a diverse group of marine bivalves characterized by their heart-shaped shells and prominent ridges.
Feeding
Like all bivalves, Laevicardium brasilianum is a filter feeder. It obtains its food by filtering water through its gills and capturing microscopic organisms such as algae, plankton, and detritus. The captured food particles are then transported to the mouth and ingested.
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