Horse clam

Horse Clam is a common name for a large saltwater clam, a marine bivalve mollusk in the family Mactridae. The term is often used to refer to two species in particular, Tresus capax and Tresus nuttallii, which are native to the Pacific Ocean coastline of North America.

Description

Horse clams are characterized by their large size, with some individuals reaching up to 20 cm in length. They have a thick, heavy shell that is typically white or cream in color, often with brown or yellowish patches. The interior of the shell is white and glossy. The clams have a pair of large, muscular siphons that are fused together for most of their length.

Habitat and Distribution

Horse clams are found in the intertidal and subtidal zones of sandy and muddy beaches along the Pacific coast of North America, from Alaska to California. They prefer areas with a high concentration of organic matter, which they filter from the water for food.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the horse clam begins with the release of eggs and sperm into the water, where fertilization occurs. The resulting larvae are planktonic and drift with the currents until they are ready to settle on the seafloor and metamorphose into juvenile clams. The juveniles burrow into the sediment and continue to grow until they reach maturity.

Human Interaction

Horse clams are harvested for their meat, which is considered a delicacy in some cultures. They are also an important food source for a variety of marine animals, including sea stars, crabs, and birds.

Conservation

While horse clams are not currently considered threatened or endangered, they are vulnerable to pollution and habitat loss. Efforts are being made to monitor their populations and protect their habitats.

See Also

• Clam
• Bivalve
• Mactridae