Fragum / Cockle Shell (Heart Cockle fragment or juvenile)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Cardiida, Family: Cardiidae, Genus: Fragum, Species: Fragum fragum · Cardiidae (Cockle family) · Bivalve (two-shelled), specifically a fragment or juvenile showing distinct sculpture.
Species
Fragum fragum (likely juvenile or fragment)
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled), specifically a fragment or juvenile showing distinct sculpture.
Family
Cardiidae (Cockle family)
Size
Approximately 0.5 to 1 inch as visible, small fragment or juvenile. Adults of the genus typically range from 1 to 2 inches.
Color & Pattern
Cream to white base with warm brownish-orange or peach patches, featuring granular raised nodes along the radial ribs characteristic of strawberry cockles.
Rarity
Common in its native range, though intact specific color morphs or distinct fragments found on tourist beaches vary by region.
Habitat
Shallow intertidal to subtidal waters, buried in clean sand or sandy-mud substrates, often around coral reef flats and seagrass beds.
Geographic Range
Indo-Pacific region, spanning from the Red Sea and East Africa across to Polynesia and Australia.
Description
A small, thick bivalve fragment displaying prominent radial ribs studded with small, bead-like nodes or tubercles. The coloration transitions from a mottled creamy white to a soft peach-orange toward the margins, exhibiting the classic surface texture of a strawberry cockle.
Key Features
Strong radial ribbing adorned with distinct rounded nodules, inflated heart-shaped profile when whole, and characteristic coloration with reddish-brown or peach speckling.
Collector Value
Low commercial value due to being a fragment, but aesthetically pleasing for micro-shell and fragment arrangements.
Condition Notes
Worn fragment with softened edges from wave action, preserving the characteristic surface granulation. Fair collectibility grade due to being incomplete.
Interesting Facts
Cardiids (cockles) can use their strong, muscular foot to leap or dig rapidly into the sand to escape predators like carnivorous snails and rays.
Ecological Role
Filter feeders that help clean coastal waters by consuming phytoplankton, serving as an important food source for bottom-feeding fish and crabs.
Similar Species
Other members of the Cardiidae family such as Vepricardium or Corculum species, distinguished by rib count and node shape.
Beach Finding Tips
Look in the wrack line of tropical Indo-Pacific sandy beaches, particularly after storm activity or at low tide.