Title
Atlantic Thorny Oyster (Spondylus americanus)
FMM2011.20.042
Subject
seashells, marine life, mollusks, bivalves
Description
White bivalve shell with peach colored spines. Gray coral around base.
The Atlantic Thorny Oyster (Spondylus americanus) is recognizable from the spines that cover its shells. These spines grow at a rapid rate of 1 mm per day. Though they appear threatening, the spines are actually used to attract other organisms, such as algae and sponges, to come and live on top of the shell. These organisms, called epibionts, help conceal the thorny oyster from predators.
The Atlantic Thorny Oyster (Spondylus americanus) is recognizable from the spines that cover its shells. These spines grow at a rapid rate of 1 mm per day. Though they appear threatening, the spines are actually used to attract other organisms, such as algae and sponges, to come and live on top of the shell. These organisms, called epibionts, help conceal the thorny oyster from predators.
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