Description: A solid, circular bivalve that reaches up to 4 cm in diameter. It is a dull white, but the light brown periostracum may cover some of the shell. There are prominent concentric ridges, although these are easily eroded so may not be visible. Growth stages aren't clear. The main part of the external ligament not deeply inset at the hinge line and is clearly visible. 2 cardinal teeth in each valve, posterior bifid in right and anterior bifid in left. Both valves have 1 small posterior and 1 small anterior lateral tooth. Pallial line and adductor muscle scars are distinct.

Habitat: Sand and gravel from low water down to around 100 m.

Distribution: Widespread around Britain and Ireland.

Similar Species: Compare with Loripes orbiculatus which differs principally in the shape and position of the ligament. Could also potentially be confused with Myrtea spinifera.

Key Identification Features:

• External ligament clearly visible.
• Dull white with light brown periostracum.
• Concentric ridges on outer surface which may be partially eroded.
• Distinct pallial line and adductor scars.

Distribution Map from NBN: Lucinoma borealis at National Biodiversity Network mapping facility, data for UK.

iNaturalist: Lucinoma borealis at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.

GBIF data for Lucinoma borealis

WoRMS: Lucinoma borealis at World Register of Marine Species. Accepted name: Lucinoma borealis (Linnaeus, 1767). AphiaID: 140283.

Classification: Biota; Animalia; Mollusca; Bivalvia; Autobranchia; Heteroconchia; Euheterodonta; Imparidentia; Lucinida; Lucinoidea; Lucinidae; Codakiinae; Lucinoma