Hearty Petricola
NameHearty Petricola
Scientific NamePetricola carditoides
Common NameHearty Petricola
FamilyPetricolidae
GenusPetricola
Speciescarditoides
Geographic DistributionPacific coast of North America, ranging from Alaska to Baja California.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)70
Identifying FeaturesCharacterized by prominent, irregular, concentric growth lamellae (ridges) on the shell surface, especially towards the ventral margin. Its elongated, somewhat irregular shape is also distinctive, reflecting its boring lifestyle.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Conrad, 1837)
Description
The image displays a bivalve mollusk, identified as a Hearty Petricola, partially embedded in a dark, organic-rich substrate, likely mud or dense algae. The shell consists of two elongated, somewhat rectangular valves, which are slightly agape, revealing a dark siphon or foot between them. The shell surface is characterized by a pale, off-white to light greyish-yellow coloration, with noticeable concentric growth lines (lamellae) that are more pronounced and irregular towards the ventral edge. There are subtle hints of bluish and yellowish tints, along with some darker, possibly sediment or algal stains. The overall appearance is robust, consistent with a burrowing or boring clam.
