Atlantic Surfclam
The Atlantic Surfclam (Spisula solidissima), a.k.a the beach clam or the skimmer clam, ranges along the east coast from Nova Scotia to Cape Hatteras. Surfclams are found in sand and muddy sand seabeds from subtidal areas to about 100 feet in depth. The offshore populations are typically larger and older than those found inshore. Surfclams may live to about 30 years of age and get up to 9 inches in length. Most surfclams take about 6 or 7 years to reach harvestable size.
Surfclams have a relatively strong shell that is somewhat triangular in shape. Shells are smooth and white, sometimes shells have a yellowish color to them. These are the most common shells found on ocean beaches south of Cape Cod.
This clam is harvested for food and is usually sold canned or frozen. Clam chowder, baked stuffed clams and fried clam strips are how they are usually served.
