General Description

Shells of this species are elongate to ovate, often irregular, with exterior sculpture of fine radial ribs crossed by concentric striae. Bristly external coating (periostracum) at valve margins, particularly ventral and posterior areas. Shell up to 7 cm across.

Biology

This species attaches to rocks by a mass of threads called a byssus. It belongs to a group of bivalves that mainly occur in tropical waters of northern Australia. Only three species from this group live in Victorian waters.

Distribution

Most states of Australia.

Habitat

Under stones and in crevices, from low tide to depths of many metres.

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