This family is best known for the shells of the speciesPlacuna placenta, which are translucent, and are commonly used in shellcraft production. In some cultures, they are cut into 2" x 2" and pressed by a 1/4" wood and are used as a form of light-admitting window.[2] This shells are a bit reflective and are even used as room movable divider (partition).
The family is closely related to the Anomiidae (saddle oysters). One of the main differences is that the Placunidae do not attach themselves to a hard surface but are instead a mud-living family.
Placunidae are suspension feeders, living on shallow, muddy-bottomed waters. They usually lie with the right valve downwards. The ligament is internal and forms a shallow V-shape.
Species in the family Placunidae are extensively collected in the Indo-West Pacific, and are cultivated or farmed in several areas.[3]
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.[2]
^ Bieler R, Bouchet P, Gofas S, Marshall B, Rosenberg G, La Perna R, Neubauer TA, Sartori AF, Schneider S, Vos C, ter Poorten JJ, Taylor J, Dijkstra H, Finn J, Bank R, Neubert E, Moretzsohn F, Faber M, Houart R, Picton B, Garcia-Alvarez O (eds.). "Placuna Lightfoot, 1786". MolluscaBase. World Register of Marine Species.
