Smoke cockle
NameSmoke cockle
Scientific NamePaphies australis
Common NameSmoke cockle
FamilyMesodesmatidae
GenusPaphies
Speciesaustralis
Geographic DistributionEndemic to New Zealand.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)40-70
Identifying FeaturesSmooth, glossy, elongated oval shell with characteristic dark, smoky, zigzag patterns on a pale background. Its estuarine habitat in New Zealand is also a key identifier.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Gmelin, 1791)
Description
A bivalve mollusk shell characterized by its smooth, somewhat elongated oval shape and distinctive dark, smoky, zigzag patterns on a pale background. It is typically found buried in sandy or muddy estuarine environments.
