The shell can range from bright green to tan to brown, and also have yellowish highlights. Darker green rays can be distinct to diffuse,
and appear in one section or across the entire shell. Very dark small speckles or dots are often present. Nacre is semi-glossy with a blueish white tinge. Very sharply angled posterior ridge with distinctive lines.**
**(Source: A Field Guide to the Freshwater Mussels of the Chicago Wilderness).
The Elktoe is a relatively distinct species of mussel, and is not easily confused with other species.
The Elktoe is listed as a Species of Special Concern in Wisconsin***. Despite this, Milwaukee Riverkeeper has found both live mussels and valves of this species fairly commonly in the main branch of the Milwaukee River.
***(Source: https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/EndangeredResources/Animals.asp?mode=detail&SpecCode=IMBIV02040)