The Norway Cockle,Smooth Cockle, scientifically known as Laevicardium crassum, is a species of bivalve mollusc belonging to the family Cardiidae. This marine creature is commonly found in various coastal habitats, contributing to the rich biodiversity of these environments.
Description & Characteristics
The Norway Cockle,Smooth Cockle is characterized by its distinctive, smooth, heart-shaped shell. Its exterior is typically white or pale yellowish-brown in color, often displaying subtle radial ribs. This species can reach a maximum size of approximately 6 centimeters in length, with adults usually ranging from 3 to 5 centimeters. Its shell is relatively thick and robust, offering protection from predators.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Norway Cockle,Smooth Cockle Laevicardium crassum is a common inhabitant of intertidal and subtidal zones, often found in sandy or muddy bottoms. Its distribution is predominantly in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, extending from Norway and the British Isles to the Mediterranean Sea. This bivalve thrives in a variety of depths, from the intertidal zone down to around 100 meters, making it a versatile species within its ecological niche.
Taxonomy
The species Laevicardium crassum belongs to the Class: Bivalvia, Order: Cardiida, and Family: Cardiidae. This classification places it within the broader group of bivalve molluscs, characterized by their two-part shell structure. The Cardiida order encompasses a diverse array of cockle species, while the Cardiidae family is specifically associated with these heart-shaped bivalves.
Feeding
The Norway Cockle,Smooth Cockle Laevicardium crassum is a filter feeder, consuming plankton that it extracts from the surrounding water. It accomplishes this by drawing water into its mantle cavity, filtering out food particles with its gills, and expelling the filtered water back into the environment. This feeding strategy is crucial for its survival and allows it to thrive in its marine habitat.
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