Paphia lirata
NamePaphia lirata
Scientific NamePaphia lirata
Common NameLirate Venus Clam, Lirate Tapes
FamilyVeneridae
GenusPaphia
Specieslirata
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and other parts of Southeast Asia.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)Up to 60-70 mm in length.
Identifying FeaturesProminent, often somewhat raised, concentric growth lines (lirae) that give the shell a ridged texture. The overall oval shape and the characteristic brown mottled or banded patterns on a lighter background are key identifiers.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Philippi, 1847)
Description
A bivalve seashell, commonly known as the Lirate Venus Clam, characterized by its oval to sub-trigonal shape and distinctive concentric ridges. The shell exhibits a creamy white to light tan background adorned with irregular reddish-brown to dark brown concentric bands and radial streaks, creating a mottled pattern. It is moderately inflated with slightly anterior umbones.
