
Quahog Clam
Uncover the hidden treasures of the sandy shores!

The Basics
Scientific Name
Mercenaria mercenaria
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Location
North and South America
Average size
up to 4 inches long
diet
Plankton
lifespan
up to 40 years
Let’s Explore
Overview
The Quahog clam, also known as Mercenaria mercenaria, lives in the sandy shores of Asia. These bivalves are a type of invertebrate and belong to the mollusk family, making them cousins to octopuses and snails.
Quahogs can reach an average size of up to 10 centimeters (4 inches) long, making them a fun size to dig up at the beach. These clams have flat, rounded shells that can be gray, brown, or even purplish, and they come with a few stripes, giving them a stylish appearance.
Quahogs spend their days filtering plankton from the water, munching on tiny food particles like a buffet for one. They open their shells a little to let the water flow in, trapping delicious plankton as their natural snack.
These clever clams can live up to 40 years, which is longer than most kids have been alive! Their longevity comes from their hardy shells that protect them from predators in their sandy homes.
With their unique ability to burrow into the sand, Quahogs create their own cozy hideout. They can dig deep to stay safe, making them some of the most secretive clams on the coast!
Where can you find a Quahog Clam in the wild?
What does a Quahog Clam eat?
How big can a Quahog Clam grow?
How long does a Quahog Clam typically live?
What is the conservation status of the Quahog Clam?
What are the main threats to the Quahog Clam?
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