tellinid

Tellinid is a common name for any bivalve mollusc belonging to the family Tellinidae. This large and diverse family is found in marine environments worldwide, inhabiting sandy and muddy substrates. Tellinids are characterized by their flattened, oval-shaped shells, which are often brightly colored and can be equivalve (both shells equal in size) or inequivalve.

The shells of tellinids typically gape slightly at one or both ends, allowing for the extension of two siphons. The longer siphon is used for drawing in water for feeding and respiration, while the shorter siphon is used for expelling waste. Tellinids are deposit feeders, meaning they ingest sediment and extract organic matter from it. They are an important part of the marine ecosystem, serving as a food source for various animals, including fish and shorebirds.

There are numerous genera and species within the Tellinidae family, with common examples including species of Tellina, Macoma, and Angulus. The size of tellinids varies considerably, from a few millimeters to several centimeters in length. Their shells are often collected by beachcombers due to their attractive appearance and smooth texture.