Draft:Teredo clappi

Teredo clappi
Scientific classification
Domain:	Eukaryota
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Mollusca
Class:	Bivalvia
Order:	Myida
Family:	Teredinidae
Genus:	Teredo
Species:	T. clappi
Binomial name
Teredo clappi Bartsch, 1923

Teredo clappi is a species of marine bivalve mollusk in the family Teredinidae, commonly known as shipworms. Despite their worm-like appearance, shipworms are mollusks related to clams and mussels. They are renowned for boring into and feeding on wood submerged in seawater, such as ships, piers, and driftwood.

Distribution and habitat

Originally described by Paul Bartsch in 1923 from specimens collected in Key West, Florida, Teredo clappi has been documented in various parts of the Western Central Atlantic. Notably, it has been recorded in Bermuda and, more recently, in Venezuelan coastal waters, indicating a broader distribution than previously recognised. This species typically inhabits warm marine environments, where it bores into submerged wood such as driftwood, mangrove roots, and wooden marine structures.

Morphology and behaviour

Like other shipworms, T. clappi possesses a long, soft body adapted for burrowing into wood. It uses small, calcareous shell valves at the anterior end to rasp and bore into wood. The species also has specialised structures called pallets at the posterior end, which are used to block the burrow entrance when the animal retracts inside.

Ecological role

Shipworms like T. clappi play a crucial role in marine ecosystems by breaking down and recycling wood materials submerged in seawater. This activity aids in nutrient cycling and provides habitats for other marine organisms. However, their wood-boring behaviour can also lead to significant damage to wooden marine structures, making them a concern for maritime industries.

References

This page will be placed in the following categories if it is moved to the article namespace.

Categories:

• Teredo (genus)
• Taxa named by Paul Bartsch
• Taxa described in 1923