Cross-barred Venus Clam
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Venerida, Family: Veneridae, Genus: Chione, Species: Chione cancellata · Veneridae (Venus Clam family) · Bivalve (two-shelled), whole shell, fan to roughly triangular shape
Species
Chione cancellata
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled), whole shell, fan to roughly triangular shape
Family
Veneridae (Venus Clam family)
Size
Approximately 1 inch in length, which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 0.75 to 1.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Off-white or cream base color adorned with distinct reddish-brown zigzag or chevron-shaped blotches and radial bands. The colors are natural and well-preserved with minor sun-bleaching near the umbo.
Rarity
Common
Habitat
Found in shallow subtidal to intertidal zones, typically buried just beneath the surface in sandy, muddy sand, or seagrass beds.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic from North Carolina through Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and down to Brazil.
Description
A solid, robust, and attractive little bivalve featuring a distinct lattice-like or cross-barred sculpture formed by prominent concentric ridges intersecting with radiating ribs. The margin is finely crenulated on the interior, and the shell has a charmingly symmetrical, rounded-triangular profile.
Key Features
The prominent grid-like or cross-barred sculpture created by strong concentric lamellae crossing fine radial ribs, combined with the reddish-brown zigzag color patterns.
Collector Value
Low to moderate value. While very popular among casual beachcombers and beginner collectors for their appealing patterns and sturdy nature, they are too common to hold high monetary value. Pristine specimens without predator bore holes fetch slightly more.
Condition Notes
Good condition. The valve is intact with clear color patterns, but exhibits a small, perfectly round predatory bore hole near the ventral margin likely made by a moon snail or murex. Collectibility grade is Good.
Interesting Facts
The characteristic round hole drilled through the shell is the calling card of carnivorous predatory snails, such as moon snails, which secrete acid and use their radula to bore through the shell and consume the soft tissue inside.
Ecological Role
Serves as an important prey item for various marine carnivores including predatory snails, crustaceans, and fish. As a filter feeder, it helps clean the water column and cycle nutrients in benthic marine environments.
Similar Species
Chione elevata (Florida Venus) and Anomalocardia flexuosa, which can be distinguished by subtle differences in rib count, shape, and overall contour.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along Gulf Coast beaches in Southwest Florida after storm events or strong onshore winds. Sift through shell piles near the high tide line or look for washed-in valves in shallow sandbars.
Notes
SW Florida