Sunset Clam (also known as the Sunrise Tellin or Banded Sunset Shell)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Cardiida, Family: Tellinidae, Genus: Asaphis, Species: A. deflorata · Tellinidae (Tellin family) · Bivalve (two-shelled clam), whole shell, trapezoidal or elongate-oval shape
Species
Asaphis deflorata
Shell Type
Bivalve (two-shelled clam), whole shell, trapezoidal or elongate-oval shape
Family
Tellinidae (Tellin family)
Size
Approximately 2 inches in length, which is a standard size for an adult specimen of this species. Typical adults range from 1.5 to 3 inches.
Color & Pattern
Displays a striking gradation of pastel pink and lavender hues transitioning to creamy white, accented by distinct, bold dark brown to black irregular markings along the posterior slope. The surface has fine, radial and concentric sculptural ribs.
Rarity
Common, frequently discovered by dedicated beachcombers and snorkelers in its native range, though well-preserved colorful specimens are always prized.
Habitat
Found buried in shallow subtidal and intertidal zones, typically inhabiting sandy substrates, coral rubble, or seagrass beds in warm, tropical marine environments.
Geographic Range
Widely distributed throughout the tropical Western Atlantic, including the Caribbean Sea, the Florida Keys, the Bahamas, and extending south to Brazil.
Description
An attractive, sturdy bivalve shell characterized by its distinct elongate-oval to trapezoidal outline. The exterior is beautifully adorned with radial ribs intersecting concentric growth lines, creating a checkered texture. The coloration is famously variable and vibrant, featuring sunset-like hues of pink, orange, yellow, or purple.
Key Features
Distinguished by its robust, compressed bivalve form, prominent radial sculpture intersecting fine concentric lines, and diagnostic dark brown blotches or streaks concentrated near the posterior margin.
Collector Value
Moderately collectible. While common, specimens with exceptionally bright 'sunset' coloration and stark dark markings are highly desirable for display collections. Typically valued affordably from $1 to $5 depending on quality.
Condition Notes
The specimen appears to be in very good, intact condition with strong structural integrity, a well-preserved hinge area, and brilliant natural coloration showing minimal wear or bleaching. Grade: Fine to Gem.
Interesting Facts
Like many tellins, the Sunset Clam lives buried just beneath the sand using its long, separate siphons to feed on microscopic algae and organic detritus. Its vibrant color variations have made it a favorite among amateur shell collectors for decades.
Ecological Role
Serves as an important prey item for various carnivorous marine gastropods, fish, and crustaceans. As a filter feeder, it helps cycle nutrients within shallow benthic marine communities.
Similar Species
Can be compared to other Tellinidae species such as the Alternate Tellin (Tellina alternata), which is generally smoother, flatter, and lacks the coarse radial ribbing and dark posterior patches characteristic of Asaphis.
Beach Finding Tips
Look for these shells by sifting through shell wrack lines on tropical Caribbean beaches, especially after storms or heavy high tides. Searching shallow sandbars and reef flats at low tide can also yield whole pairs.