Smooth Dosinia
NameSmooth Dosinia
Scientific NameDosinia elegans
Common NameSmooth Dosinia
FamilyVeneridae
GenusDosinia
Specieselegans
Geographic DistributionWestern Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina (USA) south to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.
Habitatsubtidal
Average Size (mm)30-70
Identifying FeaturesNumerous, very fine, regular, and closely spaced concentric growth lines (lamellae) covering the shell surface; smooth interspaces between lamellae; prominent umbo; compressed, orbicular shape.
Raritycommon
Author CitationConrad, 1846
Description
The Smooth Dosinia is a marine bivalve mollusk known for its elegant, nearly circular shell. It is characterized by numerous, very fine, and regular concentric growth lines (lamellae) that cover the entire surface, giving it a finely sculptured yet smooth appearance. The shell is typically compressed and equivalve, with a prominent umbo. It burrows in sandy or muddy substrates in shallow to moderate subtidal waters.
