Atlantic Ribbed Mussel [Geukensia demissa]
Description
The Atlantic Ribbed Mussel is a marine bivalve mollusc found along the Atlantic coast of North America, from the Gulf of St. Lawrence to the Gulf of Mexico. It is characterized by its ribbed shell, which can reach up to 10 cm in length, and its greenish-brown to black color. It inhabits salt marshes and estuaries, often attaching itself to the roots of marsh grasses. It is a filter feeder, playing an important role in the ecosystem by filtering out pollutants and excess nutrients from the water.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Mollusks
Mollusca
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Clams, Oysters, and Scallops
Bivalvia
|
| Order |
Mussels
Mytilida
|
| Family |
True Mussels
Mytilidae
|
| Genus |
Beard Mussels
Modiolula
|