Mellita quinquiesperforata Five-slotted Sand Dollar

    The Five-slotted Sand Dollar is a common fixture on northeast Florida Beaches throughout the year and, upon occasion, can be found by the many thousands. Their size can range from tiny juveniles (about 20 mm.) to full adults (about 100 mm.). Interestingly, all the specimens on a particular beach will usually be of a uniform size - either all adults or all juveniles. The species is virtually always found totally buried in the sand with only a tell-tale "hump" or  circular series of five small holes to indicate its presence.

Mellita quinquiesperforata Five-slotted Sand Dollar

Mayport Naval Station Beach, Duval County, Florida (about 70 mm.)