Carinoportula

A carinoportula is a type of central process unique to the genus Orthoseira. The plural is carinoportulae. The internal openings of carinoportulae are simple while the external openings are composed of distinct collars.

O Roeseana Carinoportulae
Image Credit: Marina Potapova
Image of the valve face of Orthoseira roeseana, showing three carinoportulae. The number of carinoportulae present is variable across populations.
Carinoportulae
Image Credit: Marina Potapova
Internal opening of carinoportulae in Orthoseira roeseana (SEM).