Black Datemussel

Lithophaga nigra

Black Datemussel

This date mussel bores into limestone and dead coral, dissolving the rock with acid from its mantle to carve a snug burrow. Reaching about 7 cm, it has turned up in a submarine cave in Belize and lives down to roughly 100 m.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Mollusca › Bivalvia › Mytilida › Mytilidae › Lithophaga

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 420704.

FAQ

How deep does the Black Datemussel live?
The Black Datemussel (Lithophaga nigra) is typically found at 0–101 m.
Is the Black Datemussel dangerous to divers?
The Black Datemussel is harmless to divers.
How big does the Black Datemussel get?
The Black Datemussel grows to about 6.5 cm.