Trough Shells

The Mactridae family are represented in Cornwall by the trough shells and the common otter shell.

Species of Matridae found on Cornish Shores

      Thick Trough Shell Spisula solida

      Rayed Trough Shell Matra stultorum

       Common Otter Shell Lutraria lutraria

Rayed Trough Shell Matra stultorum

A thin shell that can reach two inches across. As their name implies there are rays radiating across the shell. The inner shell has a glossy purple surface. For good examples of the ray trough shell, they have to be found soon after death of the shellfish. The shell rapidly deteriorate with the vigours of the sea.

Thick Trough Shell Spisula solida

A distinctive thick white shell with dark brown or black lines. When alive the shell is brown.

Soon after death, this thin layer of colouring is quickly worn off exposing the underlying white.

Common Otter Shell Lutraria lutraria

A large shell that can grow to over 5 inches. Quite a common shell on sandy beaches. It lives on the lower shore. Shells found on the beach are often found damaged due to its fragility.