DESCRIPTION: Up to 6cm long. This solid shell has rounded to oval and convex valves that are symmetrical except for the ears on either side of the umbo.  The colours in the variegated pattern are variable with pinks, reds, purples, yellows, oranges and whites in the general mix. There are 25-35 prominent ribs on the valves, each sporting a series of spatulate spines. DISTRIBUTION: Widespread all around the coasts of the British Isles and Ireland. HABITAT: Rocky coasts, preferably with lots of pools, are the best places to see this lovely bivalve mollusc. BEST TIME TO SEE: All year round.