Ocean Waters Ablaze With Flame Shells

80beats
By Lisa Raffensperger
Dec 28, 2012 3:18 AMNov 20, 2019 5:29 AM

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

A massive colony of these bad-hair-day shellfish, called flame shells, has been discovered off the coast of Scotland. Its inhabitants are thought to number over 100 million, making it possibly the largest grouping of flame shells in the world. The critters are a species of saltwater clam (Limaria hians), named for the fiery orange tentacles fringing their two half-shells. (To see these tentacles in action, check out this video of a flame shell

propelling itself along the seafloor.) Despite their loud coloration, flame shells are actually pretty hard to find since they build reefs on the seafloor. These reefs, in turn, provide a safe haven for the larvae of many other species, including fish and scallops. The recently discovered colony covers a whopping 185 acres, and was found during the Loch Alsh

survey commissioned by Marine Scotland earlier this year. The find strengthens environmentalists' case for designating the vicinity a Marine Protected Area, a move presently being considered by the Scottish Government. Image copyright Scottish Natural Heritage

1 free article left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

1 free articleSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 LabX Media Group