Atlantic Strawberry Cockle
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Cardiida, Family: Cardiidae, Genus: Americardia, Species: A. media · Cardiidae (Cockle family) · Bivalve (Two-shelled); this specimen is a single valve with a boxy, somewhat heart-shaped outline.
Species
Americardia media
Shell Type
Bivalve (Two-shelled); this specimen is a single valve with a boxy, somewhat heart-shaped outline.
Family
Cardiidae (Cockle family)
Size
Approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length and width. This is a mid-range adult size for this species, which typically grows to 1-2 inches.
Color & Pattern
Cream to yellowish-white base color with distinct reddish-brown or orange-pink mottled patterns. The markings often form chevron-like bands or splotches along the radial ribs. The interior is generally white, sometimes with a yellowish tint.
Rarity
Common to Very Common; frequently found washed up on beaches throughout its range, particularly after storms.
Habitat
Shallow marine waters, typically found in sandy substrates, seagrass beds, and near coral reefs from the intertidal zone to depths of about 60 meters.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic; ranging from North Carolina and Florida through the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico down to Brazil.
Description
A robust, thick-walled bivalve shell characterized by its distinctively 'boxy' or squared-off posterior margin. The shell features approximately 30 to 36 strong, scaly radial ribs that give it a rough texture. When viewed from the side, the valves form a beautiful heart shape, typical of the Cardiidae family.
Key Features
The most diagnostic feature is the sharply angled posterior slope (the 'back' of the shell is flat), combined with the strawberry-like reddish mottling and the prominent scaly ribs.
Collector Value
Low monetary value ($1-$5) due to its abundance, but highly desirable for decorative 'color' collections and educational sets because of its unique shape and vibrant patterns.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears in Good to Fine condition. It retains strong color and pattern, though there is some minor beach-wear on the scaly ridges and a slight dullness suggesting it was tossed in the surf for a short time before being found.
Interesting Facts
The animal inside has a strong, muscular 'foot' which it uses to jump and escape predators like sea stars or to quickly burrow back into the sand. The genus name Americardia refers to its American distribution and heart-shaped profile.
Ecological Role
A suspension feeder that filters plankton and organic detritus from the water column, helping to clarify the water. It serves as a prey item for shorebirds, crabs, and gastropods.
Similar Species
Trachycardium egmontianum (Prickly Cockle) is larger and more elongated; Americardia guppyi is similar but smaller with more delicate ribbing.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along the high tide line on sandy Caribbean or Florida beaches after a period of strong onshore winds. They are often found mixed in with shell 'drift' where smaller, colorful valves accumulate.