Ripptulidae

Ripptulidae is a family of marine bivalve mollusks belonging to the order Venerida. These bivalves are characterized by their equivalve, usually inequilateral shells, which are typically ovate or suborbicular in shape. The exterior of Ripptulidae shells often exhibits concentric lamellae or growth lines, and sometimes radial sculpture. The hinge structure is typically heterodont. The family is found in marine environments worldwide, inhabiting a range of substrates from sandy bottoms to muddy or gravelly areas. They are often found in shallow to moderately deep waters. Ripptulidae are filter feeders, using their siphons to draw in water and extract plankton and other organic particles. Examples of genera within Ripptulidae include Ripptula and others, though taxonomic classifications can vary. Information on the specific biology and ecology of many species within this family is not extensively documented in readily accessible literature.