Oval Venus
NameOval Venus
Scientific NameTimoclea ovata
Common NameOval Venus
FamilyVeneridae
GenusTimoclea
Speciesovata
Geographic DistributionEastern Atlantic Ocean, including the North Sea, English Channel, and Mediterranean Sea.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)15-30
Identifying FeaturesKey features include prominent, regular, and closely spaced concentric ribs (lamellae) that give the shell a sculptured appearance. The shell is relatively thick and solid, with a moderately inflated profile. The lunule (area in front of the umbo) and escutcheon (area behind the umbo) are well-defined.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Pennant, 1777)
Description
The Oval Venus is a small to medium-sized bivalve mollusk, characterized by its ovate to subtrigonal shell shape and distinctive concentric ribbing. It is typically found burrowed in sandy or muddy substrates in marine environments.
