M-781 COMMON QUAHOG CLAM, Mercenaria campechiensis
Be they “cherry stones,” “littlenecks,” or “chowders,” are the common thick shell clams prized by seafood lovers, and used by biologists and neurophysiologists. Of all the bivalves, they survive the longest with minimal care and occasional feeding. This Gulf species is generally much larger than the closely related Atlantic form, but not as abundant nor as tasty. Size 8-15 cm.
HABITAT
They can be found from the Chesapeake Bay to Florida to the Yucatan peninsula. They lie burrowed in intertidal sand flats.
BIOLOGY
They prefer warmer waters and higher salinity levels.
DIET
They are filter feeders that filter the water for microscopic plankton.
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