Spisula

bivalve genus

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Last updated

July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

Spisula is a genus of surf clams. These are bivalve mollusks, meaning they have a two-part shell. The genus includes the common edible surf clam found on the eastern coast of North America, Spisula solidissima, which is large, yellowish-white, and thick-shelled. Bivalves, in general, are a diverse group with over 15,000 living species found in all seas and some freshwater environments. They typically live buried in sandy or muddy bottoms.12

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bivalve
Internal features
The burrowing Spisula illustrates these changes. It, like Nucula, is equivalve and anteriorly and posteriorly symmetrical (isomyarian). The mantle margin is fused ventrally, allowing the foot to extend through an anterior pedal gape. The posterior inhalant and exhalant orifices are formed into tentacle-fringed siphons. The gills are…
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The burrowing Spisula illustrates these changes. It, like Nucula, is equivalve and anteriorly and posteriorly symmetrical (isomyarian). The mantle margin is fused ventrally, allowing the foot to extend through an anterior pedal gape. The posterior inhalant and exhalant orifices are formed into tentacle-fringed siphons. The gills are…
Read More