Austrovenus stutchburyi

Austrovenus stutchburyi, commonly known as the New Zealand cockle or the New Zealand little-neck clam, is a species of bivalve mollusc in the family Veneridae. It is endemic to New Zealand, where it is found throughout the country's coastal waters.

Description

The Austrovenus stutchburyi is a medium-sized bivalve, typically measuring between 30 and 50 millimeters in length. The shell is broadly oval in shape, with a slightly inflated body. The exterior of the shell is sculpted with numerous concentric ridges, and is typically a pale yellow or cream color, often with darker brown or purple patches.

Habitat and Distribution

The Austrovenus stutchburyi is found throughout the coastal waters of New Zealand, from the intertidal zone down to depths of around 10 meters. It prefers sandy or muddy substrates, and is often found in large aggregations. The species is particularly common in estuaries and harbors.

Ecology

The Austrovenus stutchburyi is a filter feeder, extracting plankton and other small particles from the water column. It is an important species in the ecosystem, contributing to nutrient cycling and providing a food source for a variety of birds and fish.

Conservation

While the Austrovenus stutchburyi is not currently considered threatened, it is vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation, particularly from coastal development and pollution. Overharvesting is also a concern, as the species is a popular target for recreational and commercial shellfish gatherers.

See also

• List of bivalves of New Zealand
• Marine life of New Zealand