The Stubby Solecurtus, Solecurtus sanctaemarthae, d'Orbigny, 1853, is a species recently recorded from Captiva Island. A single valve of the species was collected in the water at low tide on the gulf side of mid-Captiva in early May by Kimberly Nealon. The species belongs to a group of bivalves with elongate shells that include two local species, the Purplish and the Stout Tagelus. The Stubby Tagelus is a burrower that has a large body that can never be completely withdrawn inside the shell. The shell is pure white, and the two valves, when together, have a cylindrical shape. In addition, when disturbed, Solecurtus can dispose of its long siphons, which may be regenerated by the animal in due time.
The Stubby Solecurtus, Solecurtus sanctaemarthae. Photos by José H. Leal.