Hobbies And Interests
Description
Bean clams, or donax, are an extremely common clam species. They are a very small wedge-shaped clam that averages about 2 to 3 centimeters long, and are oblong in shape. The shell of the clam can range from purple, gray, shiny white, orange or yellow. This shell color can either be proportional or striped. The clams can look like tiny pebbles covering the beach.
Habitat and Migration
Bean clams live exposed in the sand on the shores of oceans, and reside on the lower beach areas. They dig themselves into the sand and are generally half exposed. The clams move up and down the beach by using the ocean's waves and tides. The strength of the constant waves unearths the clam shells from the sand and allows movement while expending very little energy.
Reproduction
Reproduction usually occurs in the spring and summer months of the year. Birth of the young happens in the greatest numbers in the fall months. The young wait out the winter season, then mature and propagate. The next year, these matured clams die. Growth of the young happens at a higher rate during the winter and fall seasons. During the summer and spring seasons, their energy is used for reproduction rather than development.
Bean Clams as Food
Many species, including humans, consume bean clams. Some animals that feed on these clams are crabs, plovers and other sea birds, drum and other fish, and moon snails. Humans consume bean clams in many different seafood dishes. Since the clams are very tiny, they tend to be used in stews and chowders. In areas where they are extremely abundant, humans have been known to can them for later use and commercial sale.