Arctic surf clam [Malacosaccus ulnarius]
Description
The Arctic surf clam, or Malacosaccus ulnarius, is a marine bivalve mollusk also in the Hiatellidae family. They are typically found in the cold waters of the Arctic and Northern Pacific Ocean, where they burrow into the sandy or muddy seafloor. Arctic surf clams are known for their large, heavy shells that have a distinct, strong radial ribbing. The color of the shell ranges from white to gray or light brown. These clams are filter feeders, consuming phytoplankton from the water column.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Sponges
Porifera
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Hexactinellida
Hexactinellida
|
| Order |
Hexactinosida
Hexactinosida
|
| Family |
Farreidae
Farreidae
|
| Genus |
Malacosaccus
Malacosaccus
|