Rose Petal Tellin (also known as the Pink Tellin or Rose Tellin)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Cardiida, Family: Tellinidae, Genus: Eurytellina, Species: E. lineata · Tellinidae (Tellin Clam family) · Bivalve (single valve shown); shape is sub-ovate to trigonal with a pointed posterior end.
Species
Tellina lineata (widely accepted as Eurytellina lineata)
Shell Type
Bivalve (single valve shown); shape is sub-ovate to trigonal with a pointed posterior end.
Family
Tellinidae (Tellin Clam family)
Size
Approximately 15-20mm (0.6-0.8 inches). This is a medium-sized specimen; adults typically reach up to 38mm (1.5 inches).
Color & Pattern
Uniformly soft rose-pink to watermelon-pink. The color is natural and consistent across the exterior. It features fine, concentric growth lines that are closely spaced, creating a subtle texture. The interior of such specimens is usually a matching glossy pink.
Rarity
Common; frequently found on beaches after storms or high tides, though vibrant, unbroken specimens are prized by casual collectors.
Habitat
Inhabits shallow marine waters, typically in sandy substrates or muddy sand. Found in the intertidal zone down to depths of about 15 meters.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic, ranging from North Carolina and Florida through the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico down to Brazil.
Description
A beautiful, delicate bivalve shell characterized by its vibrant pink hue and smooth, compressed valves. The shell is relatively thin but sturdy, with a polished appearance. It features a distinct posterior slope and a faint fold. The hinge contains small cardinal teeth typical of the Tellinidae family.
Key Features
Compressed (flat) profile, vibrant pink coloration throughout the shell material, fine concentric line sculpture, and a slightly flexed or twisted posterior end common to Tellins.
Collector Value
Low monetary value (usually $1-$5 USD), but high aesthetic desirability for beachcombing collections due to the attractive color. Paired valves (joined at the hinge) are more valuable to serious collectors.
Condition Notes
Good condition. It is a single valve rather than a paired 'butterfly' set. The color remains vibrant, suggesting it hasn't been sun-bleached for long. No visible predator bore holes or significant chipping on the edges.
Interesting Facts
Tellins are 'deposit feeders' that use long, flexible siphons to vacuum organic matter off the seafloor like a vacuum cleaner. Because of their bright color, these shells were historically used in 'sailor's valentines'—intricate shell mosaics made in the 19th century.
Ecological Role
Serves as a vital food source for shorebirds, crabs, and predatory gastropods (like Moon Snails). They help aerate the sediment through their burrowing activities.
Similar Species
Tellina punicea (Watermelon Tellin), which is usually darker and more elongated, and Angulus agilis (Northern Dwarf Tellin), which is much smaller and more iridescent.
Beach Finding Tips
Look in the 'drift line' after a receding tide on sandy Atlantic beaches. They are often found half-buried in the sand. Using a small rake or sifting through shell hash in Florida and the Bahamas is the most effective method.