Callista

Common Names

Members of this genus are commonly known as surf clams. However, "surf clam" is also a common name for clams in the genus Spisula.

Characteristics

Callista clams have a distinctive shell morphology. They are characterized by:

• A generally oval-shaped shell with a pronounced umbo (the highest point of the shell).
• A smooth or lightly sculptured surface with concentric growth lines.
• A well-defined hinge line and strong teeth.
• A wide, shallow mantle cavity that houses the gills and other internal organs.
• A muscular foot that allows them to burrow into the sand.

Environments

Callista clams are found in a variety of marine environments, including:

• Sandy beaches: They prefer well-sorted sand with moderate wave action.
• Estuaries: Some species tolerate brackish water conditions.
• Subtidal zones: They can be found at depths of up to several hundred meters.

Diet

Callista clams are filter feeders. They use their gills to collect plankton and other microscopic organisms from the water column.

References

For further information on Callista clams, you can consult the following online resources:

• World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS)
• NCBI Taxonomy Browser