Chamelea
Chamelea is a genus of saltwater clams, marine bivalve mollusks in the family Veneridae, the Venus clams. The genus name is derived from the Greek word “chame”, meaning “low”, referring to the clams’ habitat in shallow waters. This genus is widespread in the Mediterranean Sea, with some species also found in the Atlantic Ocean.
Common Names
Species within this genus are commonly known as:
- Mediterranean clam
- Venus clam
- Carpet shell clam
Characteristics
Chamelea clams are characterized by:
- Shell shape: Rounded, somewhat heart-shaped, and slightly compressed
- Shell size: Typically 3-6 centimeters in length
- Shell color: Varies depending on the species but is often a combination of white, yellow, brown, and orange with distinct radial ridges and concentric growth lines
- Interior: Smooth and pearly, with a hinge line that has three teeth on the right valve and two on the left
- Siphons: Short and separate
Environment
Chamelea clams are typically found in:
- Shallow waters: From the intertidal zone to depths of around 50 meters
- Sandy or muddy bottoms: Where they burrow into the sediment
- Coastal areas: With moderate wave action and good water circulation