Nucula proxima explained

Nucula proxima, commonly known as the Atlantic nut clam, is a marine bivalve mollusc in the family Nuculidae. It can be found along the Atlantic coast of North America, ranging from Nova Scotia to Texas, including Bermuda.^{[1] [2]}

Description

Nucula proxima has a obliquely oval, off-white to gray, shell. The exterior is glossy smooth with brownish conmarginal growth lines. The interior is a nacreous white color with fine radial striations. The length ranges from 3 mm to 10 mm. Size, shape, and color vary based on where the species is environmentally, this has led to multiple named forms.^[3]

Ecology

Nucula proxima typically lives on muddy-sand bottoms. Unlike most bivalves which are filter-feeders, N. proxima is a deposit-feeder. Thus it consumes decomposing organic matter film and bacteria that accumulates on the sea floor. They do this by using their labial palp, a proboscis likes structure that has a ciliated groove, to feed.^{[4] [5]}

References

1. Abbott, R.T. & Morris, P.A. A Field Guide to Shells: Atlantic and Gulf Coasts and the West Indies. New York: Houghton Mifflin, 1995. 3.
2. Web site: WoRMS - World Register of Marine Species - Nucula proxima Say, 1822. 2021-03-12. marinespecies.org.
3. Book: Mikkelsen, Paula M.. Seashells of southern Florida : living marine mollusks of the Florida keys and adjacent regions, bivalves. 2008. Princeton University Press. Rüdiger Bieler. 978-0-691-11606-8. Princeton. 78071775.
4. Web site: Leal. José H.. 2015-09-11. The Atlantic Nut Clam. 2021-03-12. shellmuseum. en.
5. Web site: Labial palp mollusk anatomy. 2021-03-12. Encyclopedia Britannica. en.