Pacific Winged Oyster [Pteria sterna]
Description
The Pacific Winged Oyster is native to the Pacific Ocean, particularly the Gulf of California. Similar to its Atlantic cousin, it has a distinct wing-like protrusion on one side of its shell. It generally resides in shallow waters, often attaching itself to rocks or coral. The Pacific Winged Oyster is notable for its pearl production.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Mollusks
Mollusca
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Clams, Oysters, and Scallops
Bivalvia
|
| Order |
Pearl Oysters and Relatives
Pteriida
|
| Family |
Pearl Oysters
Pteriidae
|
| Genus |
Winged Pearl Oysters
Pteria
|