grooved carpet shell
Namegrooved carpet shell
Scientific NameRuditapes decussatus
Common NameGrooved carpet shell
FamilyVeneridae
GenusRuditapes
Speciesdecussatus
Geographic DistributionEastern Atlantic Ocean (from Norway to Senegal), Mediterranean Sea, and Black Sea. Also introduced to other regions for aquaculture.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)40
Identifying FeaturesStrong concentric growth ridges intersecting with distinct radial ribs, forming a prominent decussate (cross-hatched) sculpture. The siphons are separate for most of their length.
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Linnaeus, 1758)
Description
The grooved carpet shell is a bivalve mollusc characterized by its robust, oval to subquadrate shell. The exterior displays a distinctive sculpture of strong concentric growth ridges intersected by prominent radial ribs, creating a 'grooved' or decussate (cross-hatched) pattern. Its coloration is variable, typically ranging from creamy white to yellowish or brownish, often adorned with darker radiating bands, blotches, or zig-zag patterns, particularly visible near the umbo and along the growth lines. The shell is moderately inflated and equivalve.
