New records and ecological insights of Spondylus limbatus (Bivalvia, Spondylidae) from the Panamic Province
This study provides updated distribution data for Spondylus limbatus across eight Latin American countries, including newly documented sites in regions with little prior information. By assembling a reference collection of 180 specimens, the work supports future ecological, archaeological and geochemical research on this long-exploited bivalve.
Subject Tags
- Coastal
- Biodiversity
Abstract
Although Spondylus limbatus is a fishery resource in several Latin American countries and has been widely reported throughout the Panamic Province, gaps remain in the knowledge of its distribution and ecology. This bivalve has been exploited since pre-Hispanic times, although the specific harvesting grounds are still uncertain. To contribute to malacological issues of both archaeological and contemporary interest, we established a reference collection that will serve as a basis for future studies, particularly geochemical analyses. Sampling consisted of recovering approximately four individuals per locality, obtained mainly from local food consumption, while recording information on their provenance and collection environment, amongst other data. In total, 180 individuals were recovered from shallow waters at 72 localities distributed across eight countries of the region. Collection sites included open coasts, gulf and bays that may comprise islands and shoals.
Citation
Cotom-Nimatuj, J. A., Michel-Morfín, J. E., Bassey-Fallas, G., Segovia, J., Sharpe, A. E., Sandino, O., ... & Béarez, P. (2026). New records and ecological insights of Spondylus limbatus (Bivalvia, Spondylidae) from the Panamic Province. Biodiversity Data Journal, 14, e180522.
TNC Authors
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Pedro Jiménez-Prado
Freshwater Conservation Scientist • Ecuador
The Nature Conservancy
Email: pedro.jimenez@tnc.org