Siliqua
Siliqua is a genus of bivalve mollusks in the family Tellinidae, commonly known as “razor clams” or “jackknife clams.” These marine bivalves are characterized by their long, slender, and slightly curved shells, resembling a razor blade or a jackknife. They burrow into soft sediments, extending their siphons to filter food from the surrounding water.
Common Names
Siliqua species are commonly referred to as "razor clams" or "jackknife clams" due to their distinctive shell shape. They are also sometimes called "beach clams" or "surf clams."
Characteristics
Siliqua species share several characteristics, including:
- Long, narrow, and slightly curved shells
- Thin, fragile shells with a smooth, glossy surface
- A prominent umbo (hinge point) located near the anterior end
- Two siphons, one for inhaling water and the other for expelling water and waste
- A muscular foot used for burrowing into sediment
Environments
Siliqua species are found in intertidal and shallow subtidal zones of sandy beaches and estuaries. They prefer environments with soft sediments and moderate wave action. These clams typically bury themselves in the sand, with their siphons extending to the surface to filter food from the water.
References
For more information about Siliqua species, you can refer to the following reliable resources: