California Venus
NameCalifornia Venus
Scientific NameChione undatella
Common NameCalifornia Venus, Wavy Chione
FamilyVeneridae
GenusChione
Speciesundatella
Geographic DistributionEastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from Southern California (USA) south through Baja California (Mexico) and into the Gulf of California.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)40-70
Identifying FeaturesThe most distinctive feature is the series of strong, widely spaced, and often wavy concentric lamellae (ribs) that cover the entire shell surface. The internal margin of the shell is typically crenulated (finely toothed).
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author CitationSowerby I, 1835
Description
A medium-sized bivalve mollusk shell, characterized by its robust, ovate to subtrigonal shape. The exterior surface is distinctly sculptured with prominent, widely spaced, and often wavy concentric lamellae (ribs). The shell is typically off-white to grayish-cream, as seen in the specimen, and is moderately inflated with a noticeable umbo.
