masthead graphic
ISM System :Fresh Water Mussel Image Gallery
Illinois Mussels
Introduction
Anatomy
Habitat
Life Cycle
Human Uses
Diversity
Mussel Database
Photo Gallery
Identification Activity
Activities
Glossary
Resources
Credits
Harvesting the River

Genus Truncilla

Class Bivalvia : Subclass Paleoheterodonta : Genus Truncilla

Truncilla truncata (Deertoe)
The shell of the deertoe mussel is triangular in shape with the anterior end rounded. The umbos are elevated. The surface is yellow, green, or brown with green rays. It grows to two inches in length. This species lives in the mud, sand, or gravel of medium to large rivers. In Illinois it is found in most parts of the state, although less in the northeastern corner. Conservation status: widespread and common
Taxonomy: Order Unionoida; Superfamily Unionoidea; Family Unionidae; Subfamily Lampsilinae

Collection of the Illinois State Museum, photograph by Karen Little
ISM Accession #: 678951

<b><i>Truncilla truncata</i> (Deertoe)</b>

Class Bivalvia : Subclass Paleoheterodonta : Genus Truncilla

First | Previous | Next | Last

Copyright © 2012 Illinois State Museum Site Map | ISM Privacy Information | Kids Privacy | Web Accessibility | Webmaster| Illinois DNR