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Shell of the Week: The Blood Ark

José H. Leal

Lunarca ovalis is an ark clam that stands out because of its heavy fur-like periostracum, or outermost shell layer. Reaching 64 mm (about 2.5 inches), its shell is inflated, oval, and is almost as long as it is high, being one of the shorter ark clams in Florida. As with most members of the family Arcidae, the shell bears a number of radial ribs. The vernacular (“common”) name of this species refers to the color of its blood, imparted by the presence of a form of hemoglobin. The latter helps improve in-body oxygen transport in anoxic (oxygen-depleted) environments. The species is found all along the Eastern Seaboard of the US, Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean to Brazil and Uruguay.


Lunarca ovalis. Illustration by Patricia A. Starke.

1 Comment


Harry Kevin
Harry Kevin
5 days ago

Exploration of this fascinating marine species, showcasing its unique characteristics and habitat. For students working on academic projects like marine biology assignments, services like professional assignment writing help can be invaluable. My friend recently used this service two days ago and found it incredibly helpful in crafting a detailed and well-researched paper. Such assistance ensures high-quality content tailored to academic standards. Trust professional assignment writing help to make complex topics more manageable and impactful.

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