Eumarcia paupercula
NameEumarcia paupercula
Scientific NameEumarcia paupercula
Common NamePoor Venus, Pauper Venus
FamilyVeneridae
GenusEumarcia
Speciespaupercula
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Australia, and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)30-60
Identifying FeaturesOvate to subtrigonal shell shape, fine concentric growth lines, and highly variable but characteristic color patterns often involving radial rays and concentric bands. The shells in the image clearly show these concentric lines and the mottled brown/purplish pattern.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Holten, 1802)
Description
Eumarcia paupercula is a species of marine bivalve mollusc, commonly known as the Poor Venus or Pauper Venus. Its shell is characterized by an ovate to subtrigonal shape, moderate inflation, and a surface adorned with fine concentric growth lines. The coloration is highly variable, often featuring a cream or light brown base with intricate patterns of darker brown, purplish-brown, or reddish-brown radial rays, blotches, and concentric bands, giving it a mottled or checkered appearance. The two valves shown in the image display a typical pattern for this species.
