Mar 17
Uncharismatic Fact of the Day
A mussel's hard outer shell already provides it with lots of protection, but Elliptio spinosa takes it to the next level! Altamaha spinymussels grow up to 5 spines in a row down the center of their shells, some of which can reach up to 2.5 cm (0.98 in) in length! In addition to extra predator deterrent, the spines also help the mussels to anchor themselves along the sandy river bottom.
(Image: A pair of Althamaha spinymussels (Elliptio spinosa) by Jimmy Rickard)
