The eastern elliptio (Elliptio complanata) is a freshwater mussel in the Unionidae family, native to Canada and the United States. It is a bivalve member of the phylum Mollusca. Not only is it found in Canada and the United States, but it is frequently the most abundant species of mussel found in its home waterways. It is the most common mussel in the Delaware River and the most common mussel found in the state of New Hampshire and Vermont. It can be found in the substrate at the bottom of lakes, ponds and rivers. Size is variable, but can reach up to 13 centimetres (5.1 in) in length.
From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Is it venomous or poisonous?
We have no record of Eastern Elliptio being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
- Echyridella menziesii
- Diplodon chilensis
- Margaritifera margaritifera
- Eurynia dilatata
- Uniomerus carolinianus
- Elliptio pullata
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Mollusca
- Class
- Bivalvia
- Order
- Unionida
- Family
- Unionidae
- Genus
- Elliptio
- Species
- Elliptio complanata
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