Shell form and the ecological range of living and extinct Arcoida

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Abstract
Arcoid bivalves occupy an intermediate position, in terms both of morphology and of adaptive range between the Pterioida and the Veneroida. The range and limits of arcoid adaptations are related to the growth patterns of their shells. Both the arcoid hinge and ligament grow by the serial repetition of simple structures, in contrast with the development of more specialized, complex structures in other groups. These simple growth patterns place significant mechanical constraints on the range of possible shell forms. Most arcoids live in moderately unstable environments, where they are liable to be excavated or detached from their substrates. Many employ recovery strategies, being adapted to regain their life positions. However, a variety of specialized forms, convergent on other groups of bivalves, have become adapted to avoid being dislodged in the first place. Thus, intrinsic growth patterns and substrate relationships have been the major factors in the evolution of the Arcoida.

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