Fragile Papershell
ExploreInvertebrate
Fragile Papershell
Potamilus fragilis
The Fragile Papershell is a special kind of freshwater mussel that lives in rivers and lakes. It has a smooth, thin shell that can be light-colored and is very delicate, making it unique among its friends in the water.
Habitat: Freshwater rivers and lakes
Appearance
The Fragile Papershell has a thin, oval shell that is smooth and often greenish-yellow to light brown. Its delicate, papery texture distinguishes it from most other freshwater mussels, which typically have much thicker, heavier shells.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumMolluscaClassBivalviaOrderUnionidaFamilyUnionidaeGenusPotamilus
Category
InvertebrateRarity
Rare
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
Be the first to snap!
Interesting facts
A single Fragile Papershell can filter many gallons of water every day!
The Fragile Papershell is so delicate that its shell can break easily if dropped!
Their babies need to hitch a ride on a fish's gills to grow up!
These mussels can live for over 15 years, quietly cleaning the water.
Special abilities
Ability
Hidden Burrower
Fragile Papershell can burrow into soft river sediment using its strong, muscular foot to hide from predators.
Ability
Water Purifier
Fragile Papershell has specialized gills that help them filter tiny food particles from water, keeping rivers clean and clear.
Ability
Fish Lurer
Fragile Papershell can wiggle a special mantle flap that looks like a small fish, attracting bigger fish to approach them.
Measurements & details
- Length Cm
- 12 cm
- Shell Thickness Mm
- 1 mm
- Width Cm
- 6 cm
- Lifespan Years
- 15 years
Diet & Feeding
They filter tiny bits of algae and other small particles from the water to eat.
Primary Foods
- Algae
- Bacteria
- Detritus
- Phytoplankton
Foraging Method
- Filter Feeding
Ecological connections
Traits
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Filter Feeder
Filter feeders obtain nutrients by straining suspended food particles and small organisms from water.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Longevous
This trait characterizes organisms with an exceptionally long lifespan compared to others of their kind.
Freshwater
Freshwater habitats include non-saline aquatic environments such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and wetlands, vital for numerous species.
Keystone Species
Describes a species whose presence and role have a disproportionately large effect on its environment.
Miniature
Pertaining to species that are significantly smaller than typical or average for their kind.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Endangered
Endangered status indicates a species is at a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Be careful when exploring near water; slippery rocks can be dangerous!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Fragile Papershell?
12 cm
How big is Fragile Papershell?
1 mm
How long does Fragile Papershell live?
15 years
What does Fragile Papershell eat?
They filter tiny bits of algae and other small particles from the water to eat.
Where is Fragile Papershell usually found?
Freshwater rivers and lakes
How does Fragile Papershell hunt?
Filter Feeding
Snap Map
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Recent Snaps
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