Distinguishing Characteristics |
Bivalve (2 shells); shell wider than high, oval shaped, thin, fragile, slightly inflated; color whitish, possibly with a grayish skin (periostracum); fine irregular concentric growth lines; beak central, slightly anterior of shell; posterior and anterior margins rounded; ridge from beak to posterior margin; posterior end curved outward, producing gape; pallial sinus moderately large, rounded, reaching mid-shell; interiorly beak area with 1 or 2 depressions (chondrophore) flanked by small projecting teeth. |
Similar Species |
Its rounded margins, central beak, and fine commarginal ridges help separate the fragile surf clam from other surf clams. The teeth and chondrophores help distinguish it from other clams. |
Habitat |
Bays, mud bottoms |
Maximum Size |
9 cm (3 1/2 in) |
Other Common Names |
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Previous Scientific Names |
Mactra fragilis |
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