Pilbara Ctenocardia
Ctenocardia pilbaraensis
Ctenocardia pilbaraensis is a subtidal infaunal bivalve found exclusively inshore in the Pilbara area. Previously confused with C. fornicata but differs in smaller size, thicker shell, fewer ribs, crowded rib sculpture and less colorful shell interior.
Morphology
It is medium sized (up to 28.5 mm length) and solid, quite quadrate or square with 32-38 well developed radial ribs with diversity of densely placed scale morphology on the ribs including some broader than the ribs, others tubular and spiny. Ornamentation easily worn off revealing glossy ribs underneath. Exterior white or cream with irregular brown or purple patches, interior white or pale pink with pink to purple spot near posterior margin.
Evolution
Little is known about the relationship of this species to other members of the genus.
Behaviour
This species, like all cardiids, is shallowly infaunal and will reburrow if disturbed. It is related to photosymbiotic fragines but is not itself photosymbiotic.
Method of reproduction
Broadcast spawner.
Habitat
Marine
Subtidal infaunal in coarse sand, silt and rubble
Distribution
Unlike C. fornicata and C. gustavi, this species is an inner continental or coastal WA species with a depth range of 2-109 m (11-52 m alive). It is fully allopatric with congeners.
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Phylum: | Mollusca |
| Class: | Bivalvia |
| Subclass: | Heterodonta |
| Superorder: | Imparidentia |
| Superfamily: | Cardioidea |
| Family: | Cardiidae |
| Genus: | Ctenocardia |
| Species: | pilbaraensis |
| Name Published Year: | 2017 |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name Authorship: | ter Poorten & Kirkendale |
| Commercial Impact: | None |
| Conservation Assessment: | Least Concern |
Cite this page
Western Australian Museum Collections https://museum.wa.gov.au/online-collections/names/Ctenocardia-pilbaraensis
Accessed 1 Sep 2023
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