Crenella

Crenella is a genus of small marine bivalve mollusks belonging to the family Mytilidae, commonly known as mussels. These mussels are characterized by their small size, typically less than 20 millimeters in length, and their elongated, often inequilateral shells. The shell surface is usually smooth or finely striated, and the color can vary from yellowish-brown to dark brown or black. Crenella species are found worldwide in marine environments, inhabiting a range of substrates including sandy or muddy bottoms, and often attaching themselves to rocks, seaweed, or other sessile organisms.

The genus Crenella is widespread and diverse, with numerous species described. Some common species include Crenella decussata, known for its distinctive decussate sculpture, and Crenella arenaria, which is frequently found in sandy intertidal zones. These mussels are deposit feeders, sifting through sediment to extract organic matter. They play a role in benthic ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling and serving as a food source for various invertebrates and fish. Due to their small size and often cryptic habitat, Crenella mussels are not typically harvested for human consumption but are important components of marine biodiversity.