Purple Venus Clam
NamePurple Venus Clam
Scientific NameHysteroconcha dione
Common NamePurple Venus Clam, Royal Comb Venus, Dione Venus
FamilyVeneridae
GenusHysteroconcha
Speciesdione
Geographic DistributionWestern Atlantic Ocean, including the Gulf of Mexico, Florida, Caribbean Sea, and extending south to Brazil.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)60
Identifying FeaturesKey identifying features include its vivid purple to pink coloration, numerous and prominent erect concentric lamellae (ridges) that are often blade-like, and its inflated, ovate-trigonal shell shape. The strong sculpture is a defining characteristic.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Linnaeus, 1758)
Description
A striking bivalve seashell, characterized by its vibrant purple to pink coloration and prominent, blade-like concentric ridges (lamellae) that give it a distinctive 'comb-like' appearance. The shell is typically thick, inflated, and somewhat triangular-ovate in shape. This specimen displays a rich, uniform purple-pink hue with well-defined growth lines.
