Classification: State Endangered
Interior
Exterior
NOTE: Hover over the bold words for definitions or see the Glossary.
The Atlantic pigtoe was described by Conrad in 1834 from the Savannah River in Georgia. This species has a medium, sub-rhomboid shaped shell that rarely exceeds 60 mm in length. Individuals from headwater streams tend to be more elongate than those found in larger streams. The posterior ridge is angular and very distinct. Valves are usually compressed, but the umbos extend well above the dorsal margin. The periostracum generally is yellowish brown or greenish brown with a parchment-like texture. The nacre is somewhat shiny and can be white, salmon, orange or iridescent blue. There are two pseudocardinal and two lateral teeth in the left valve and one of each in the right valve. The anterior pseudocardinal tooth in the right valve is vestigial.
Shell Anatomy
General Life History For Mussels