Atlantic Strawberry Cockle
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Subclass: Heterodonta, Order: Cardiida, Family: Cardiidae, Genus: Americardia, Species: Americardia media · Cardiidae (Cockle family) · Bivalve (Two-shelled); this is a single valve (half of a whole shell), fan-shaped/triangular.
Species
Americardia media
Shell Type
Bivalve (Two-shelled); this is a single valve (half of a whole shell), fan-shaped/triangular.
Family
Cardiidae (Cockle family)
Size
Approximately 1 inch (25mm) in diameter. Adult specimens range from 0.75 to 2 inches; this specimen is a mature representative.
Color & Pattern
Base color is shades of creamy white to pale pink, overlaid with distinct reddish-brown to orange-pink 'strawberry' mottling and zig-zag banding. The interior of this species typically shows a matching pinkish or yellow flush at the umbo.
Rarity
Common to Very Common; frequently found washed up on beaches throughout Florida and the Caribbean.
Habitat
Shallow marine waters, ranging from the low intertidal zone to depths of about 60 meters. Prefers sandy or muddy substrates where it can burrow.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic, extending from Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, through the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, to Brazil.
Description
A robust, thick-walled bivalve with a distinctively squared-off posterior end. The shell is decorated with approximately 33 to 36 strong, radiating ribs. These ribs are scaly or beaded, particularly near the margins. Its shape is roughly triangular or heart-shaped when viewed from the side, giving it the characteristic 'cockle' appearance.
Key Features
The most distinguishing feature is the sharp 'kink' or truncation at the posterior margin, creating a flattened rear slope. The reddish-brown spotting is also highly diagnostic for this species compared to other cockles.
Collector Value
Modest collector value ($1-$5 range). It is highly desirable for beginner beachcombers and 'shell crafters' due to its attractive color and texture, but is generally too common for advanced investment collections.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears to be in 'Good' to 'Fine' condition. It shows some minor beach-wear and slight bleaching at the umbo (beak), but the ribbing and color patterns remain clearly visible. No structural cracks or significant predator holes are apparent.
Interesting Facts
The name 'Cockle' comes from the Greek word 'Kardía' (Heart), referring to the heart-shaped profile formed when both valves are joined. Living cockles have a strong, muscular foot that allows them to perform small 'jumps' to escape predators like starfish.
Ecological Role
Suspension feeders that filter plankton and organic particles from the water column, acting as vital water purifiers. They serve as a primary food source for rays, sea stars, and various shorebirds.
Similar Species
The Yellow Cockle (Doxander vittatus) lacks the squared-off posterior; the West Indian Prickly Cockle (Trachycardium egmontianum) is more oval and has much sharper spines on the ribs.
Beach Finding Tips
Look for these along the 'wrack line' (the line of debris left by high tide). They are most abundant after storms or heavy surf which dislodge them from nearshore sandy bottoms.