Dog cockle

Glycymeris glycymeris 01

Glycymeris glycymeris 02

Dog cockle (Glycymeris glycymeris) is a species of bivalve mollusc in the family Glycymerididae. This marine species is found along the coasts of Europe, from Norway to the Mediterranean, and along the North African coast. Dog cockles inhabit sandy and muddy seabeds at depths ranging from the intertidal zone to several hundred meters. They are known for their robust, rounded shells, which can reach up to 6 cm in diameter and are characterized by their thick, ridged, and often colorful appearance.

Description

The shell of the dog cockle is notably thick and strong, with a roughly circular shape. The exterior of the shell is sculpted with concentric ridges and can display a variety of colors, including shades of white, yellow, brown, and red. The interior is smooth, with a distinctive deep purple or brown color near the hinge. Dog cockles have a large and muscular foot, which they use to burrow into the seabed.

Habitat and Distribution

Dog cockles are found in a wide range of marine environments, from shallow waters to depths of over 200 meters. They prefer sandy or muddy substrates where they can burrow. Their distribution extends from the cold waters of Norway, down through the British Isles, across the coasts of western Europe, and into the warmer waters of the Mediterranean and North Africa.

Ecology

The diet of the dog cockle consists mainly of plankton, which they filter from the water using their gills. They are preyed upon by a variety of predators, including starfish, crabs, and fish. Dog cockles play a role in the marine ecosystem by contributing to the benthic community structure and acting as a food source for higher trophic levels.

Human Use

Historically, dog cockles have been used as a food source, though they are not as highly prized as other bivalves like oysters or clams. In some regions, their shells have been used as a source of lime for agriculture. Today, they are occasionally collected for use in aquariums due to their interesting appearance and behavior.

Conservation

While not currently listed as endangered, the dog cockle, like many marine species, faces threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and the effects of climate change. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting their natural habitats and ensuring sustainable harvesting practices where they are collected.

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