< Previous species

NUCULANIDAE

Next species >

Nuculana sp.

Description: Shape equivalve, inequilateral, inflated, drawn out posteriorly. Umbones slightly forward of midline. Anterior end rounded, posterior end slightly drawn out, posterior dorsal margin concave. Umbones projecting well above hinge line. Hinge taxodont, with about 12 teeth on anterior side, 15 on posterior. Interior smooth, muscle scars poorly defined. Exterior with irregular raised concentric ridges, stronger ventrally. Periostracum thin, fawn. Exterior shell colour white, opaque.

Size: Up to 7.5 mm in length.

Distribution: Known from off Broken Bay, NSW, southwards to off Gabo Island, Vic.

Habitat: Known from depths of 384-1200 m.

Comparison: Similar in size and shape to Ledalla pala but much more obese with larger umbones.

Remarks: This appears to be an undescribed species.

Fig. 1: Off Sydney, in 1097 m (C.162491)