Barbatia [Barbatia]

Description

Barbatia is a genus of ark clams known for their sturdy, elongate shells adorned with parallel ribs or ridges. These marine bivalves are distributed widely in tropical and subtropical seas, where they inhabit coral reefs and rocky substrates, often at considerable depths. The shells of Barbatia species are variably colored, and the interior is typically smooth and shiny, sometimes with a pearlescent quality. They contribute to reef ecosystems by filtering water and serving as prey for various predators.