| Page last updated
14 August 2012 |
Mussel of the Month
The August 2012 Mussel of the Month is Chelidonopsis hirundo. Chelidonopsis hirundo is a monotypic genus endemic to the Congo Basin of Africa.
MNHN. Gancini, Congo (type of C. arietina Rochebrune).
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 We have already spotlighted Chelidonopsis as Mussel of the Month back in March 2005. But, the IUCN as recently highlighted this freshwater mussel as an Amazing Species. And, we know a little more about this species than we did 7 years ago. For example, while sampling in Malebo Pool in 2006, we collected some live C. hirundo. Unlike the unionids of North America and Europe, iridinids like Chelidonopsis have full-on siphons -- with mantle fusion more like a marine clam. While rooting around in the mud, KSC was injured by the sharp tail-fins of this really interesting shell.
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To find out more about Chelidonopsis and the IUCN Red List, check out:
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