- Source: Pyganodon cataracta
Pyganodon cataracta, formerly Anodonta cataracta, is a species of large freshwater mussel, an aquatic bivalve mollusc in the family Unionidae, the river mussels. Its common name is the eastern floater.
Subspecies
Pyganodon cataracta subsp. cataracta
Pyganodon cataracta subsp. marginata
Description
Pyganodon cataracta can reach a size of 10–15 centimetres (3.9–5.9 in).
Distribution and habitat
This mussel is present in freshwater habitats along the Atlantic coast of North America, ranging from Alabama to some parts of Canada. It is typically found in soft-bottomed ponds, rivers and small lakes.
Taxonomy
Like many other of its relatives, the eastern floater was thought to be in the genus Anodonta, but was since moved to other genera such as Pyganodon, Utterbackia, and more.
References
Richard A. Tankersley - Larval Brooding by the Freshwater Unionid Mussel Anodonta Cataracta - Wake Forest University. Department of Biology, 1992
The Freshwater Mussels (Unionoida) of the World
Catalogue of Life