IDENTIFICATION RESOURCES
The differences between a number of species belonging to this genus are very subtle. The following characteristics can be used distinguish M. Rufescens from other bivlaves:
- Light cream coloured shell with darker bands away from the apex of the shell.
- Ridges on shell are relatively broad compared to other species of trough shells.
- The interior of the shell is white with purple blotches.
- Shorter and more stout than surf clams.
Figure 1:The distinctive stout, compact reddish trough shell. Note the darker bands of colour away from the apex of the shell.
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