| Placunidae | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Mollusca |
| Class: | Bivalvia |
| Order: | Ostreoida |
| Family: | Placunidae Gray 1842 |
| Genera | |
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Placunidae, are a family of marine bivalves that are related to oysters and scallops. The family includes the specie Placenta placuna also called windowpane oysters or capiz in the Philippines, known for its translucency which are commonly used in shellcraft production.[1]
The family is closely related to the Anomiidae (saddle oysters), one of the main differences being that the Placunidae do not attach themselves to a hard surface - instead they are a mud-living family.
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Placunidae are suspension feeders, living on shallow, muddy-bottomed waters. The usually lie with the right valve downwards. The ligament is internal and forms a shallow V-shape.
The sexes are separate and the larval stage is free-swimming.
Species in the family Placunidae are extensively collected in the Indo-West Pacific, and are cultivated or farmed in several areas.[2]
The windowpane oysters are valued for their translucent shell. The shells were originally used as a glass substitute in glazing, but nowadays they are mainly used in the manufacture of trays, lampshades and numerous decorative items.[1]
In coastal areas the flesh is eaten.