Saxidomus gigantea

Saxidomus gigantea

Saxidomus gigantea is a species of large, edible saltwater clam, a marine bivalve mollusk in the family Veneridae, the Venus clams. This species is native to the Pacific coast of North America, ranging from Alaska to Baja California.

Description

Saxidomus gigantea is a large clam, with a thick, heavy shell that can reach up to 15 cm in length. The shell is usually white or cream-colored, often with brown or purple streaks. The interior of the shell is white, often with a purple patch near the hinge.

Habitat and Distribution

Saxidomus gigantea is found in the intertidal and subtidal zones, usually buried in sand or mud. It is most commonly found in estuaries and bays, but can also be found in open coastal areas. The species is distributed along the Pacific coast of North America, from Alaska to Baja California.

Life Cycle and Behavior

Saxidomus gigantea is a filter feeder, extracting plankton and other small organisms from the water with its gills. It has a long lifespan, with individuals known to live up to 140 years. The species is dioecious, with separate male and female individuals. Spawning occurs in the spring and summer, with larvae developing in the water column before settling to the seafloor.

Human Use and Conservation

Saxidomus gigantea has been harvested by indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest for thousands of years. Today, it is commercially harvested for food, and is also a popular species for recreational clam digging. However, populations of Saxidomus gigantea have been impacted by overharvesting, habitat loss, and pollution. Conservation measures include size and bag limits, closed seasons, and the establishment of protected areas.

See Also

• Veneridae
• Bivalve mollusk
• Pacific Northwest

References

• Pacific Northwest Shell Club
• Marine Life of the Pacific Northwest
• Bivalves of the Pacific Northwest

External Links

• Saxidomus gigantea - The Seafood Watch
• Saxidomus gigantea - The Marine Species Identification Portal