WHATSTHATFISH
Bivalves & chitons

Variable Thorny Oyster

Spondylus varius

Also known as: Chrysanthemum Shell, Giant Variable Thorny Oyster, Mollusc, Orange-mouth Thorny Oyster, Oyster, Spiny Oyster, Varian Thorny Oyster

Adult
@fishx6 · Maldives · August 20061 / 14
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Overview

Found attached to dead corals, over intertidal areas. Variable colours and patterns.

Most Bivalves are permanently anchored in fissures or depressions in the rock surface of the reef, some may become covered in algae and other marine life.
Other Bivalves swim free, either by a well developed foot or propelled along by a jet of water from their mantle cavity.

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How to identify

Head & Mouth
teeth

Tap any trait to see other fish that share it.

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Habitat & where to find it

  • Range · Pacific Ocean
  • Country only · 14
LIVES IN

Found attached to dead corals, over intertidal areas.

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Adult photos 14

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Discussion

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    ALL STAGES
    FOR THE MARINE-BIOLOGY CURIOUS

    Deep dive

    Taxonomy

    1. kingdomAnimalia
    2. phylumMollusca
    3. classBivalvia
    4. orderPectinida
    5. familySpondylidae
    6. genusSpondylus
    7. speciesSpondylus varius G. B. Sowerby I, 1827

    SourcesWoRMSWikipedia

    06

    More in the family

    Pectinida