Eurytellina

Eurytellina is a genus of saltwater clams, marine bivalve mollusks in the family Tellinidae, the tellins. They are commonly known as tellins or as “sand tellins”.

Eurytellina punicea

Eurytellina simulans

Characteristics

These small clams are typically less than 2 cm in length and are characterized by their thin, fragile shells. The shells are generally oval to elongate in shape, with a smooth, slightly convex surface. The hinge line is straight, and the anterior and posterior ends are rounded. The color of the shells can range from white to pale yellow or brown, often with faint, radiating lines or markings.

Environment

Eurytellina species inhabit sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal waters. They are commonly found in intertidal zones, but some species can occur at depths up to 100 meters. They are filter feeders, using their siphons to draw in water and extract food particles.

Distribution

Eurytellina species have a global distribution, with representatives found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They are particularly common in temperate and tropical waters.

Species

The genus Eurytellina includes several species, some of which are:

  • Eurytellina alternata
  • Eurytellina americana
  • Eurytellina angulata
  • Eurytellina cuneata
  • Eurytellina decussata
  • Eurytellina laevigata
  • Eurytellina punicea
  • Eurytellina striata
  • Eurytellina subovata

References

For further information on Eurytellina, you can consult these resources: