Tapestry Venus, Lettered Venus, or Checkerboard Clam
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Venerida, Family: Veneridae, Genus: Tapes, Species: Tapes dorsatus · Veneridae (Venus Clams) · Bivalve (Two-shelled); Single valve (left valve) shown. Shape is ovate-oblong with a slightly compressed profile.
Species
Tapes dorsatus (Confidence: 90%)
Shell Type
Bivalve (Two-shelled); Single valve (left valve) shown. Shape is ovate-oblong with a slightly compressed profile.
Family
Veneridae (Venus Clams)
Size
Relatively small specimen, estimated at 35-45mm in length. This species typically reaches adult sizes of 60-90mm.
Color & Pattern
Base color is off-white to cream with heavy chocolate brown to blackish mottling. Pattern consists of zigzag lines, blotches, and radial streaks often forming a 'tapestry' or letter-like appearance. The interior is likely white or pale lilac, though not visible here.
Rarity
Common; frequently found as beach wash-up on the sandy flats of Moreton Bay, though pristine paired valves are less common.
Habitat
Inhabits the intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, typically buried in sandy or muddy substrates in bays and estuaries like Moreton Bay.
Geographic Range
Common throughout the Indo-Pacific; specifically abundant in Northern and Eastern Australia, including the Brisbane/Sandgate coastline.
Description
An attractive, sturdy bivalve characterized by a smooth yet finely decussated surface texture. The shell is elongated and oval with the umbones located towards the anterior end. Its sculpture consists of fine concentric growth lines and faint radial striae, giving it a subtle cross-hatched feel. The exterior is highly decorative with dark, erratic pigmentation.
Key Features
Ovate-oblong shape; lack of heavy coarse ribbing (unlike Anadara species); distinctive 'tapestry' pattern; hinge contains three cardinal teeth (not visible); posterior margin is slightly broader and rounded.
Collector Value
Low to modest. While aesthetically pleasing, it is a very common species in Queensland. Unique pattern variations or exceptionally large, 'gem' quality specimens with both valves intact carry more value.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. There is significant erosion on the umbo (beaked area) and some 'beaching' where the natural glaze has worn off. Dark staining is visible, possibly from anaerobic mud or tannin exposure. This is a typical beach-found specimen showing natural weathering.
Interesting Facts
The name 'Venus' refers to the goddess of love, a nod to the shell's beauty. Many species in this family are edible and are harvested commercially or recreationally as 'pippies' or clams. They are masterful burrowers using a powerful muscular foot.
Ecological Role
Suspension feeder that filters plankton from the water column, acting as a natural water purifier. They provide a food source for shorebirds, rays, and predatory gastropods like drills.
Similar Species
Tapes literatus (Lettered Venus) - has more distinct 'M' or 'W' patterns; Ruditapes philippinarum (Manila Clam) - typically smaller and more heavily ribbed.
Beach Finding Tips
Best found at low tide on the expansive mudflats of Brighton and Sandgate. Look near the waterline or in shallow pools where the tide has recently receded, revealing shells buried just under the surface.
Notes
Brighton beach Sandgate in Brisbane