Chama
Chama is a genus of saltwater clams, marine bivalve mollusks in the family Chamidae. The shells of these clams are typically thick and irregularly shaped, often resembling a half-opened hand. They are commonly called “hand clams,” “pillar shells,” or “thorny oysters.” Members of this genus are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide.
Characteristics
Chama clams are characterized by their distinctive shell morphology. The shell is usually thick, heavy, and often covered with spines, knobs, or ridges. The two valves, or halves of the shell, are unequal in size, with the left valve being larger and attached to a substrate. The hinge line is short, and the shell often has a prominent, curved beak. The shell color can vary depending on the species and environment, but it is often whitish, grayish, or yellowish. Chama clams typically have a rough, irregular exterior, and the interior of the shell is usually smooth and pearly.
Environment
Chama clams are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Rocky reefs: The clams are commonly found attached to rocks, coral, and other hard surfaces.
- Coral reefs: They can be abundant in areas with high coral cover.
- Seagrass beds: They are sometimes found living among seagrass meadows.
- Sand and mud bottoms: While less common, they can occur in areas with sand or mud, especially if there are rocks or other hard surfaces present.
Distribution
Chama clams are distributed worldwide in tropical and subtropical waters. They are found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.