TF0107 - Spondylus

TF0107 hand specimen.

TF0107 sketch.

Age

Cretaceous

Stratigraphic Range

Triassic to present

Taxonomy

Phylum: Mollusca
Class: Bivalvia
Order: Pectinoida
Family: Spondylidae
Genus: Spondylus

Distinctive Features

Umbo
Ribs
Dorso-ventral symmetry
Two valves

Preservation

Mineral replacement of shell

Advanced notes

Rarely for bivalves Spondylus articulates its valves using a ball and socket hinge, not a toothed hinge. It was spiny when alive (to discourage predators).