Abstract 2612 Uncovering the Coloration Mechanism of Mercenaria mercenaria

Mollusks, a diverse phylum of soft-bodied invertebrates, have evolved for over 500 million years, driven by their ability to construct mineralized shells. Composed primarily of calcium carbonate polymorphs, these durable exoskeletons withstand environmental stress while displaying a remarkable diversity of colors, shapes, and structural patterns. The Northern quahog (Mercenaria mercenaria), a filter-feeding bivalve native to the Atlantic shores of North America, is distinguished by its purple shell border, which ranges from pale lavender to vivid violet.