Modiolus carvalhoi

Modiolus carvalhoi is a species of bivalve mollusk, commonly known as a horsemussel, described by Klappenbach in 1966. It belongs to the genus Modiolus, which includes other species of horsemussels. Modiolus carvalhoi is part of the family Mytilidae, the mussels.^[1][2]

Modiolus carvalhoi
Scientific classification
Domain:	Eukaryota
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Mollusca
Class:	Bivalvia
Order:	Mytilida
Family:	Mytilidae
Genus:	Modiolus
Species:	M. carvalhoi
Binomial name
Modiolus carvalhoi Klappenbach, 1966

Distribution

It is known to occur in the Indo-Pacific region and along the coast of South America.

Physical description

Specimens have been recorded with shell lengths around 7 mm.

While specific morphological details are limited, as a member of the Modiolus genus, it likely possesses an elongated shell with a smooth surface, typical of mussels in this group.

Ecology and behavior

Like other mussels, M. carvalhoi is a filter feeder, playing a role in maintaining water quality by filtering plankton and suspended particles. It attaches to substrates using byssal threads, allowing it to anchor to various surfaces in its marine habitat.

Habitat

Horsemussels, including Modiolus carvalhoi, are typically semi-infaunal, meaning they partially bury themselves in sand or mud, with their posterior end protruding.

Scientific significance

Modiolus carvalhoi is included in the "Checklist of marine Bivalvia (Mollusca) from Brazil," which provides descriptive analyses of their bathymetric and geographical distribution. This inclusion highlights its relevance in studies of marine biodiversity in the South Atlantic region.