Cross-barred Venus or related small bivalve (often referred to generically as a small clam or cockle)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Venerida, Family: Veneridae, Genus: Chione, Species: Chione cancellata · Veneridae (Venus clam family) · Bivalve (two-shelled clam), whole single valve, fan-to-oval shape
Species
Chione cancellata (most likely based on general sculptural appearance)
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled clam), whole single valve, fan-to-oval shape
Family
Veneridae (Venus clam family)
Size
Approximately 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) in length, which is small and typical for juvenile specimens or smaller species in the family; adults usually range from 1 to 2 inches.
Color & Pattern
Uniform off-white to pale cream coloration with no prominent brownish zig-zag banding visible, likely due to sun-bleaching or natural monochromatic variation.
Rarity
Common; frequently found as beach-worn single valves along tropical and subtropical sandy coastlines.
Habitat
Shallow marine waters, typically found buried in sandy or muddy substrates in intertidal to shallow subtidal zones, often near seagrass beds.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from North Carolina through the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and down to Brazil.
Description
A compact, sturdy bivalve valve featuring prominent, regular concentric ridges intersecting with radial ribs, creating a distinctive grid-like or cancellate surface texture.
Key Features
Distinctive cross-hatched sculptural pattern formed by the intersection of strong concentric lamellae and radial ribs.
Collector Value
Low monetary value; highly common and usually collected by hobbyists rather than advanced commercial collectors.
Condition Notes
Fair condition; single valve with some surface wear, slight sun-bleaching, and minor edge chipping, typical of beach drift specimens. Collector grade: Good.
Interesting Facts
Venus clams are burrowing filter feeders that use a muscular foot to dig rapidly into the sand when disturbed.
Ecological Role
Serves as an important prey item for carnivorous gastropods, fish, and crabs, and contributes to marine benthic filtration.
Similar Species
Other members of the Veneridae family, such as Chione grus (Little Cross-barred Venus), which is generally smaller and has finer sculpture.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along the high-tide line on sandy beaches after storms or rough surf, specifically sifting through shell hash.