Nut clam
Venus nux
Venus nux is a species of marine bivalve mollusk belonging to the family Veneridae. This species is commonly found along the Mediterranean coasts, including the regions of the Comunidad Valenciana in Spain. It plays a significant role in the local marine biodiversity.
Characteristics:
- Shell Appearance: The shell of Venus nux is typically round to oval in shape, with a smooth and glossy surface. It often exhibits a variety of colors ranging from cream to brown, often with subtle radial patterns.
- Size: The species is generally small to medium-sized, with average dimensions varying depending on their habitat.
- Habitat: Venus nux is commonly found in sandy substrates in shallow waters, where it can burrow and search for food.
- Diet: Like other bivalves, it feeds by filtering plankton and organic matter from the water using its gills.
This mollusk species is an essential part of the marine ecosystem due to its role in the food chain and its contribution to the clarity and quality of the aquatic environment. It is also of interest to local fisheries and is sometimes harvested for consumption, although it is not as commercially important as other species in the family Veneridae.