Pismo Clam
NamePismo Clam
Scientific NameTivela stultorum
Common NamePismo Clam
FamilyVeneridae
GenusTivela
Speciesstultorum
Geographic DistributionPacific coast of North America, primarily from Monterey Bay, California, south to Baja California, Mexico.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)100
Identifying FeaturesThick, heavy, and smooth shell with a trigonal-ovate shape. Prominent concentric growth lines are visible. The shell is typically found buried in sandy beaches. Internally, it possesses a strong hinge with three cardinal teeth in each valve.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Mawe, 1823)
Description
The image displays a bivalve shell, identified as a Pismo Clam, with both valves articulated and slightly agape, resting on a sandy beach. The shell is robust, smooth, and exhibits a characteristic trigonal-ovate shape with distinct concentric growth lines. Its coloration ranges from light tan to reddish-brown, indicative of its natural appearance.
