I'm not sure how variable or consistent the muscle scar patterns within Spondylus shells are, but such patterns might aid in distinguishing individual species.

Aloha,

Dave Lum

>From: David Kirsh <[log in to unmask]>
>Reply-To: Conchologists of America List <[log in to unmask]>
>To: [log in to unmask]
>Subject: Re: spiny oysters... Angaria vicdani
>Date: Thu, 21 Oct 2004 21:57:49 -0500
>
>I'm just wondering how frequently Spondylus americanus has been identified
>when S. ictericus is actually present. Judging by my attempts to ID
>Spondylus from Thailand, distinguishing variability from species-differences
>in this genus has got to be among the most difficult in conchology. Even
>after I got some assistance, I still couldn't be confident in diagnosing
>them.
>
>Who are the Spondylus experts and what do they rely on?
>
>David
>
>
>i guess not! i have seen many for sell at Salvador (Bahia - Brazil). They
>are very common. I have one (yellow).
>
>Regards
>Fabio Wiggers
>
>
>
>
>
>

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