Paratapes textilis

Paratapes textilis is a species of saltwater clam, a marine bivalve mollusk in the family Veneridae, the Venus clams.

Description


Shell of Paratapes textilis can reach a length of 3 - 4 cm, with a maximum length of 8 cm. These shells are elongate, elliptical-ovate and moderately inflated, with rounded margins. The outer shell surface is smooth, glossy, pale yellowish-white, with pale purplish grey inverted V-shaped markings. Hinge is narrow, with three radiating cardinal teeth.

Distribution
This species is present in Indian Ocean and in South Africa.

Habitat
These bivalves live on sandy bottoms or attached to rocks, at depths of up to 4 metres.