Dosinia contracta
NameDosinia contracta
Scientific NameDosinia contracta
Common NameContracted Dosinia
FamilyVeneridae
GenusDosinia
Speciescontracta
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as Japan, China, the Philippines, Indonesia, and parts of Australia.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)25-40 mm in length (or diameter for orbicular shells). The shell in the image appears to be within this range, fitting comfortably in a human hand.
Identifying FeaturesOrbicular shape, fine concentric sculpture on the exterior (not visible in this interior view), deep and ascending pallial sinus (internal feature), and often a distinctive purplish interior coloration near the umbo. The smooth, glossy interior is characteristic.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Philippi, 1848)
Description
A bivalve mollusk shell, specifically the interior of a single valve, characterized by its distinctly orbicular (nearly circular) shape. The shell exhibits a smooth, glossy surface on the interior, with a striking purplish-brown coloration concentrated near the umbo (hinge area), gradually fading to a paler lavender or whitish hue towards the ventral margin. The shell appears relatively thin but sturdy, consistent with a burrowing clam.
