Rose Petal Tellin, also known as the Rose Tellin or Pink Tellin
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Cardiida, Family: Tellinidae, Genus: Tellina, Species: Tellina lineata · Tellinidae (Tellin family) · Bivalve (two-shelled clam), whole shell, ovate to sub-triangular fan shape
Species
Tellina lineata (or closely related Tellina species)
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled clam), whole shell, ovate to sub-triangular fan shape
Family
Tellinidae (Tellin family)
Size
Approximately 0.75 to 1 inch, which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 0.5 to 1.5 inches.
Color & Pattern
Delicate pastel pink to rose coloration, fading to white near the ventral margin with a distinct deep pink or red umbo (beak). The coloration is entirely natural and very vibrant.
Rarity
Common to Uncommon, depending on the specific beach and local sand conditions.
Habitat
Shallow subtidal to intertidal zones, typically burrowing in fine sand, mud, or mixed sand-shell substrates in protected bays and marine environments.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic, extending from North Carolina through Florida, the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and down to Brazil.
Description
A delicate and charming bivalve characterized by its smooth, glossy exterior and striking pink-to-white gradient. The shell features fine concentric growth lines and a gently compressed, slightly inequilateral ovate profile.
Key Features
Smooth, glossy porcelain-like texture, vibrant pink umbo contrasting with lighter pink and white body, and a slightly compressed, elongated shape typical of the Tellinidae family.
Collector Value
Low to moderate commercial value, highly popular among casual beachcombers and beginner-to-intermediate collectors due to its attractive pink color and aesthetic appeal.
Condition Notes
Gem to Fine condition. The shell is fully intact with excellent preservation of its natural pink coloration, no major chips, and minimal wear on the margins.
Interesting Facts
Tellin clams are active burrowers that use their long, separate siphons to vacuum up microscopic organic detritus from the surface of the sand while safely buried beneath.
Ecological Role
Serves as an important food source for bottom-feeding fish, rays, and carnivorous gastropods, while helping recycle nutrients in sandy coastal benthic environments.
Similar Species
Tellina radiata (Sunrise Tellin), which is generally larger with radiating white and pink rays rather than concentric bands.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along high tide wrack lines on fine sand beaches in the morning after a storm, especially in tropical and subtropical regions of the Caribbean and Florida.