Family Chamidae

Shell size to 75 mm; shell almost a mirror image of Chama macerophylla. As in other species in the genus Pseudochama, attaches to hard substrates by deep right valve, which turns from left to right. Sculpture of about 20-30 spiny radial ribs. Color cream to light-gray. Pseudochama radians (Lamarck, 1819) is a junior synonym.

Shell size to 70 mm; shell rounded, with an irregular outline. As in other species in the genus Chama, attaches itself to hard substrates by deep left valve, which turns from right to left. Sculpture of large, scale-like or leaf-like projections arranged concentrically. Inner margin of valves finely crenulated. Color white, yellow, rose, purple, or combinations of these colors.

Shell size to 35 mm; shell thick, circular, usually smaller than Chama macerophylla. Sculpture of weakly corrugated radial riblets, never forming scales. Inner margin of valves finely scalloped. Color pinkish or reddish with markings of darker color. Often found attached to shells of Atrina serrata.

Shell size up to 40 mm; shell squarish, heavy, not attached to substrate. Sculpture of 7-8 strong radial rows of tubular spines. Smaller projections on interspaces between rows of spines. Lunula large, heart-shaped. Color white, internally with pink or light-purple tints.This is a relatively common species in SW Florida. However, as is the case with many bivalve species, entire shells, aka paired valves, are difficult to find. Florida spiny jewelboxes show delicate and variable color patterns, and the species name derives from the hollow spines present on the shell. The complete shells shown in the supplementary photos were collected by Shell Museum friends Smoky Payson (left, found in 2016) and Jim Scatterday (right, found in 2007), on the east end of Sanibel. The shell on the right had been bored by a chimney clam, whose dwelling can be seen on the bottom part of the shell.