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Donacidae

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Donacidae
Donax variabilis
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Mollusca
Class: Bivalvia
Order: Cardiida
Superfamily: Tellinoidea
Family: Donacidae
Fleming, 1828
Genera

See text.

The Donacidae, the "bean clams" or "wedge shells", are a family of bivalve molluscs of the superfamily Tellinoidea. The family is related to the Tellina.

The Donacidae are prolific filter feeders and are an important part of coastal food chains where they occur. The family is sensitive to coastal industry such as dam-building and dredging.

Description

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Members of this family have asymmetric, elongated, compressed shells. The two siphons are short but are completely divided, and the foot is large. They are vigorous burrowers.[1]

Genera

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References

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  1. ^ Barrett, J. H. and C. M. Yonge, 1958. Collins Pocket Guide to the Sea Shore. P. 160. Collins, London