New Zealand Seashore

DSC_13979 Boring mussel (Zelithophaga truncata) habitat. Date mussels are common in the mudstone tidal platforms bordering the Hauraki Gulf. Mussel valves are covered in a rich-brown periostrachum, which developes a dense, closely cropped stubble at the pointed end. Uses an acid secretion to bore into soft rocks. Howick Beach, Auckland

DSC13979Boring musselZelithophagatruncatahabitatlow tideholesboredsoftmudstonerockHowick BeachAuckland