False Quahog
NameFalse Quahog
Scientific NamePitar morrhuanus
Common NameFalse Quahog, New England Venus
FamilyVeneridae
GenusPitar
Speciesmorrhuanus
Geographic DistributionWestern Atlantic Ocean, from New England (USA) southwards to the Caribbean Sea and Brazil.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)Typically ranges from 25 to 40 mm in length.
Identifying FeaturesCharacterized by its smooth, glossy, ovate-trigonal shell, prominent and slightly anteriorly directed umbo, and porcelaneous interior. Lacks strong radial ribs or prominent concentric sculpture.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author CitationGould, 1862
Description
A single valve of a bivalve mollusk, viewed from the interior. The shell is smooth, glossy, and exhibits an ovate-trigonal shape. Its color is predominantly yellowish-cream, with subtle brownish tints near the umbo. The interior surface is porcelaneous.
