Paratapes textilis is a species of saltwater clam, a marine bivalve mollusk in the family Veneridae, the Venus clams.[1]

Paratapes textilis
Valve of Paratapes textilis from Indian Ocean
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Mollusca
Class: Bivalvia
Order: Venerida
Superfamily: Veneroidea
Family: Veneridae
Genus: Paratapes
Species:
P. textilis
Binomial name
Paratapes textilis
(Gmelin, 1791)
Synonyms
  • Paphia textile

Description

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cf. Paratapes textilis from the Pliocene of Java, Indonesia

Shell of Paratapes textilis can reach a length of 3–4 centimetres (1.2–1.6 in), with a maximum length of 8 centimetres (3.1 in). These shells are elongate, elliptical-ovate and moderately inflated, with rounded margins. The outer shell surface is smooth, glossy, pale yellowish-white, with pale purplish grey inverted V-shaped markings. Hinge is narrow, with three radiating cardinal teeth.[2]

Distribution

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This species is present in Indian Ocean and in South Africa.[3][4]

Habitat

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These bivalves live on sandy bottoms or attached to rocks, at depths of up to 4 metres.[2]

References

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