Mactridae
The Mactridae are a family of saltwater clams, marine bivalve mollusks in the order Veneroida. These are commonly called “surf clams,” “trough shells,” and “basket clams.” They are found in sandy bottoms in shallow and deep waters, often in intertidal areas where wave action is present.
Characteristics
Mactridae have a distinctive, often somewhat oval, shell that can be smooth, ribbed, or with other ornamentations. Their shells are typically large and thick, and they have a prominent hinge with strong teeth. These clams have a siphon that extends beyond the shell, which they use to filter food from the water. Some species have a muscular foot that they use to burrow into the sand.
Environments
Mactridae are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Intertidal zones
- Subtidal zones
- Estuaries
- Deep sea
They are often found in sandy or muddy bottoms where they can burrow to avoid predators and filter food from the water.
Importance
Mactridae are important members of marine ecosystems, playing a vital role in the food chain and nutrient cycling. Some species, such as the surf clam (Spisula solidissima), are commercially important as a source of food.
Examples of Species
Some common examples of Mactridae species include:
- Spisula solidissima (Surf clam)
- Mactra stultorum (Trough shell)
- Mactra corallina (Basket clam)
- Tresus nuttallii (Gaping clam)
- Lutraria lutraria (Sand gaper)