Habitat: This oyster lives in fairly deep waters and attached on corals. Distribution: This species has been reported from North Carolina down to Brazil. Characteristics: Spondylus americanus measures between 3 and 5 inches long. It has a strong shell, which is attached by its right valve. The shape of the shell can vary depending on the abundance of the species within a certain area. On the surface, we can distinguish many ribs, covered with spines. Also, on each valve, we can distinguish interlocking teeth. The color pattern consists of a white to brown background, or a more yellow or red coloration.