Tellinidae
Tellinidae is a large and diverse family of saltwater clams, commonly known as tellins, tellin shells, or sunray clams. They are bivalve mollusks belonging to the order Veneroida. Tellins are found in a variety of marine habitats worldwide, from shallow intertidal zones to deep-sea environments.
Characteristics
Tellinidae species exhibit a wide range of shell morphologies, but generally possess elongated, oval-shaped shells with a distinct anterior and posterior end. The shells are typically thin and fragile, often with a smooth, glossy surface. The hinge line is relatively straight, and the teeth are small and inconspicuous. Most tellins have a distinctive "sunray" pattern on the surface of their shells, created by radiating lines or ridges. The siphons, used for feeding and respiration, are usually long and extend beyond the shell margins.
Environment
Tellinidae clams are primarily infaunal, meaning they burrow in the sediment. They are commonly found in sandy or muddy bottoms, where they filter-feed on organic matter and plankton. Some species are adapted to live in specific environments, such as intertidal zones, estuaries, or deep-sea trenches.
Common Names
Common names for Tellinidae include:
- Tellin
- Tellin shell
- Sunray clam
- Macoma
- Semele
- Donax
References
For further information, consult the following references: