Black Hammer Oyster

Malleus malleus

Black Hammer Oyster

A hammer shaped oyster that anchors by byssal threads on reef flats and coarse coral sand, standing on end and half buried in the sediment. Its long dorsal ears act as an anchor while the lower shell stays exposed, and it often grows in large crowded colonies.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Mollusca › Bivalvia › Ostreida › Malleidae › Malleus

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 507055.

FAQ

How deep does the Black Hammer Oyster live?
The Black Hammer Oyster (Malleus malleus) is typically found at 1–15 m.
Is the Black Hammer Oyster dangerous to divers?
The Black Hammer Oyster is harmless to divers.