Winged floater


The winged floater is a species of freshwater mussel, an aquatic bivalve mollusk.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1838 by Isaac Lea, along with two similar-looking shells from one location in the lower Willamette River: A. oregonensis and A. wahlamatensis. The latter is currently treated as synonymous with A. nuttalliana.

Description

The shell of the winged floater is quite thin, and elliptical or ovate, with the back dorsal showing the prominent "wing" shape. The nacre has white or blue-tinged tone. Individuals may reach a size of up to.

Distribution and habitat

The winged floater lives buried in the sandy or muddy bottom of lakes and rivers, most frequently at low elevations. The species occurs in California, Oregon, Washington, and the southern parts of British Columbia. Historical records from Utah are of uncertain status.