Discover the captivating world of mollusks in Zeeland’s coastal waters, a diverse group of soft-bodied animals that play crucial roles in marine ecosystems. This category features various species, including charming bivalves like mussels and clams, colorful gastropods such as snails and sea slugs, and intriguing cephalopods like octopuses and squids. Learn about their unique adaptations, feeding habits, and reproductive strategies, as well as their ecological significance in maintaining the health of underwater environments. Perfect for diving enthusiasts and marine life lovers, explore the fascinating diversity of mollusks and their contributions to the rich marine life of Zeeland!
A baby bobtail Squid. Bobtail Squid – Sepiola Taxonomy: Bobtail squids belong to the Sepiolidae family, closely related to cuttlefish. Known for their small, round bodies, they are distinct from true squids. Species: There are about 70 species of bobtail squids, with sizes typically ranging between 1 and 8 centimeters. Reproduction: Females lay eggs in…
Periwinkle (Littorina littorea) – Alikruik Taxonomy: The Periwinkle belongs to the Littorinidae family, known as sea snails. These small mollusks are well-adapted to tidal environments and are found in various parts of the world. Species: Littorina littorea is the most common species, but there are others, each with slightly different features and habitats. Reproduction: Periwinkles…
European Flat Oyster (Ostrea edulis) – Plat oester Taxonomy: The Pacific Oyster belongs to the Ostreidae family, known for its many edible oysters. Species: Found along the Pacific coast, this oyster species is known for its rapid growth and resilience. Reproduction: Pacific Oysters are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water where fertilization…
European Flat Oyster (Ostrea edulis) – Plat oester Taxonomy: The European Flat Oyster, Ostrea edulis, is a species of oyster in the family Ostreidae. It has been a part of European waters for millions of years. Species: Native to Europe, this species is found from Norway to the Mediterranean. It prefers shallow coastal waters and…
Squid (Loligo vulgaris) – Inktvis Taxonomy: The Common Squid, or Loligo vulgaris, belongs to the Loliginidae family. Known for their streamlined bodies and unique ink-squirting defense, squids are cephalopods, like octopuses and cuttlefish. Species: Squids come in various sizes, with some reaching up to 50 cm in length. The Common Squid is one of the…
Razor Clam (Ensis ensis) – Scheermesje Taxonomy: The Razor Clam, Ensis ensis, belongs to the Pharidae family and is known for its long, thin shell that resembles an old-fashioned razor. Species: There are several species of razor clams, but Ensis ensis is most common along European coastlines. Reproduction: Razor clams release eggs and sperm into…
Sea Lemon (Doris pseudoargus) – Zeecitroen Taxonomy: The Sea Lemon belongs to the Discodorididae family. It is a type of nudibranch, a soft-bodied marine gastropod with vibrant colors. Appearance: Often yellow with dark spots, resembling a lemon. Adults can grow up to 12 cm in length. Habitat: Found along the Atlantic coasts, from Norway to…
Harlequin Slug (Polycera quadrilineata) – Harlekijnslak Taxonomy: The Harlequin Slug belongs to the Polyceridae family. Known for its striking appearance, this species stands out due to its bright colors and unique patterns. Species: While many sea slugs exist, Polycera quadrilineata is distinct for its vibrant stripes, typically found in the North Atlantic and North Sea…
Common Limpet (Patella vulgata) – schaalhoren Taxonomy: The Common Limpet (Patella vulgata) belongs to the Patellidae family. These creatures are marine gastropods, closely related to snails. Unlike other mollusks, they have simple conical shells and powerful suction abilities. Species Overview: Patella vulgata is a widespread species found in the intertidal zones of the northeastern Atlantic,…
Cockle (Cerastoderma edule) – Kokkel Taxonomy: The Cockle belongs to the Cardiidae family, a group of saltwater clams. They have strong, ribbed shells that are rounded in shape. Species: There are over 200 species of cockles, but Cerastoderma edule is common in European waters. Habitat: Cockles are found in intertidal zones, especially in sandy and…
