Adula
Adula is a genus of saltwater mussels, marine bivalve molluscs in the family Mytilidae. These mussels are commonly known as false mussels. The genus comprises about 17 species. The taxonomy of this genus has been a subject of debate, with some authors considering it to be a subgenus of Mytilus. The genus Adula is distributed throughout the world’s oceans.
Characteristics
Mussels in the genus Adula are typically small to medium-sized, with shell lengths ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters. They are characterized by their elongated, oval-shaped shells, which are often smooth and glossy. The shells are typically bluish-gray to brownish-black in color, with some species exhibiting iridescent patterns. Adula species have a distinctive feature known as the "adductor muscle scar," a prominent mark left by the muscle used to close the shell. This scar is typically located near the hinge of the shell.
Environments
Adula mussels are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Intertidal zones
- Subtidal zones
- Rocky shores
- Coral reefs
- Seagrass beds
- Estuaries
They are typically attached to hard substrates such as rocks, pilings, and boat hulls using strong byssal threads. Adula mussels are filter feeders, consuming phytoplankton and other small organisms from the water column.
References
For more detailed information on the taxonomy and biology of Adula mussels, refer to the following websites: