Trigonal Tivela
NameTrigonal Tivela
Scientific NameTivela trigona
Common NameTrigonal Tivela
FamilyVeneridae
GenusTivela
Speciestrigona
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific, particularly along the coasts of East Africa (e.g., Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya), Madagascar, Mauritius, and Reunion.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)50-100
Identifying FeaturesSmooth, glossy, trigonal shell with prominent concentric growth lines. The overall triangular shape and varied concentric banding are key identifiers. The umbones are typically prominent.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Gmelin, 1791)
Description
A medium-sized, bivalve mollusk shell characterized by its distinctive trigonal (triangular) to ovate shape and smooth, glossy surface. The shell exhibits prominent concentric growth lines and a varied color pattern, typically featuring shades of orange and brown with concentric banding. The interior can be white, often with purplish or pinkish hues near the ventral margin or umbo. It is a filter feeder found burrowing in sandy substrates.
