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northern coquina clam

Also known as: Donax fossor

Quick Summary

The northern coquina clam, scientifically known as Donax fossor, is a small bivalve mollusk found in shallow waters along the coast from Long Island to Cape May, New Jersey. These clams are typically yellowish-white with bluish rays and measure between 6 to 12 mm in length. They are a type of coquina clam, belonging to the genus Donax, which are marine invertebrates inhabiting sandy beaches worldwide. Coquina clams are known for their active nature, migrating with the tides and quickly reburying themselves after each wave. They possess short siphons used to feed on suspended plant material and detritus. While edible, they are not as commonly eaten as other clam species.12

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