Tiger Lucine (also known as Tiger Clam)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Venerida, Family: Lucinidae, Genus: Codakia, Species: Codakia tigrina · Lucinidae (Lucine family) · Bivalve (two-shelled), whole shell, rounded to slightly subcircular fan shape
Species
Codakia tigrina
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled), whole shell, rounded to slightly subcircular fan shape
Family
Lucinidae (Lucine family)
Size
Approximately 1 inch in width, which is typical for smaller specimens or juveniles of this species. Adults typically range from 1.5 to 3 inches.
Color & Pattern
Featuring a creamy white base color adorned with distinctive, irregular reddish-brown or chestnut blotches and zigzag patterns resembling tiger markings. The interior is white with a yellowish-orange margin.
Rarity
Common
Habitat
Shallow subtidal and intertidal zones, typically buried in sandy substrates, coral sand, and seagrass beds in tropical marine environments.
Geographic Range
Panamic-Pacific province, ranging from the Gulf of California down to Peru, including the Galapagos Islands and coastal Costa Rica.
Description
A solid, heavy bivalve shell with fine, intricate radial ribs intersecting with concentric growth lines, creating a distinct reticulated or cross-hatched texture. The outline is rounded and slightly inflated, showcasing striking brownish zigzag markings over a pale background.
Key Features
Rounded subcircular shape, fine radial and concentric sculpture creating a grid-like texture, distinct brown zigzag pattern, and strong internal hinge teeth characteristic of the Lucinidae family.
Collector Value
Modest collector value. Common in shell shops and easily found by beachcombers in its native range, prized mostly for its attractive geometric color patterns.
Condition Notes
Good condition with natural coloration intact, minor beach wear along the margins, and slight fading due to sun exposure. Collectibility grade is Good.
Interesting Facts
Lucine clams have a unique symbiotic relationship with chemosynthetic bacteria housed in their gills, which help them process nutrients in nutrient-poor tropical sands.
Ecological Role
Plays an important role in benthic bioturbation and nutrient cycling in sandy coastal sediments, serving as prey for various carnivorous gastropods, fish, and crabs.
Similar Species
Codakia orbicularis (Tiger Lucine of the Caribbean), which has a whiter overall appearance and is found in the Atlantic rather than the Pacific.
Beach Finding Tips
Search tropical sandy beaches and shell-rich strands, particularly after high tides or storms in regions like Playa Conchal, Costa Rica, where shell gravel accumulates.
Notes
Guanacaste conchal Costa Rica