Florida Cross-barred Venus
NameFlorida Cross-barred Venus
Scientific NameChione cancellata
Common NameFlorida Cross-barred Venus
FamilyVeneridae
GenusChione
Speciescancellata
Geographic DistributionWestern Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina, USA, south through Florida and the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea, and down to Brazil.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)40
Identifying FeaturesThe most prominent identifying feature is the strong cancellate sculpture, where numerous concentric ridges are intersected by distinct radial ribs, creating a grid-like or 'waffle-like' pattern. The shell is thick and heavy for its size, and the hinge plate is robust with three cardinal teeth in each valve.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Linnaeus, 1767)
Description
The Florida Cross-barred Venus is a common and distinctive bivalve mollusk found along the southeastern coast of North America and the Caribbean. Its shell is characterized by a robust, somewhat inflated structure with a unique cancellate (cross-barred) sculpture formed by intersecting concentric ridges and radial ribs. The coloration typically features a whitish or cream background adorned with striking reddish-brown to brown patterns, often appearing as irregular bars or blotches. These shells are frequently found washed ashore on sandy beaches.
