Jewel Boxes [Placuna]

Description

Placuna is a genus within the Anomiidae family, commonly referred to as jewel boxes or windowpane oysters. These bivalves are known for their flat, translucent shells which are somewhat circular in shape and can grow up to 15cm in diameter. Placuna species are primarily found in Indo-Pacific waters, inhabiting sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow coastal environments. Unlike typical oysters, their diet can include phytoplankton, which they filter from the water. Their unique, glass-like shells are sometimes used in craft and jewelry, or as a natural window material in some traditional constructions.

Species

Atlantic Jewel Box [Chama lazarus]

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Pacific Jewel Box [Chama pacifica]

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Giant Jewel Box [Chama macerophylla]

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Taxonomy