Variegated Tapes
NameVariegated Tapes
Scientific NameRuditapes variegatus
Common NameVariegated Tapes
FamilyVeneridae
GenusRuditapes
Speciesvariegatus
Geographic DistributionIndo-Pacific, particularly common in East Asia (e.g., Japan, Korea, China, Philippines), and introduced to other regions.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)30-60
Identifying FeaturesOval outline, prominent concentric growth lamellae (ridges), fine radial sculpture creating a cancellate texture, and a variable but often variegated color pattern. The hinge typically has three cardinal teeth in each valve.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Sowerby, 1852)
Description
A single, worn valve of a bivalve shell, oval in shape, with distinct concentric growth ridges and finer radial striae, creating a somewhat cancellate texture. The shell is predominantly off-white to grayish, with subtle brownish tints near the umbo and along some growth lines. A characteristic predatory drill hole, likely from a moon snail (Naticidae), is visible on the shell surface.
