The joaquin clam is a species of saltwater clam in the family Mactridae. There is debate about whether the Joaquin clam is a distinct species from the Nuttall's cockle, with some arguing it a subspecies.
Appearance
* Shell: The shell of the joaquin clam is large and heavy, growing up to 7 cm long. It is triangular in shape, with a pointed beak. The outer surface of the shell is white or cream-colored, with concentric growth lines. The inside of the shell is white or purple.
* Siphons: The joaquin clam has two siphons that extend from the top of its shell. The inhalant siphon is shorter and thicker than the exhalant siphon. The exhalant siphon has a small opening at the end.
* Mantle: The mantle of the joaquin clam is white or cream-colored, and covers most of the inside surface of the shell. The mantle has a muscular foot in the center. The clam uses the foot to burrow into the sand.
Habitat:
The joaquin clam is found in mudflats and sandy beaches in the Pacific Ocean. It is found from Alaska to California.
Diet:
The joaquin clam feeds on plankton, that it filters out of the water with its siphons.