Habitat Suitability Index Models: Littleneck Clam

The littleneck clam, a member of the family Veneridae, is a hardshell species found in estuaries, bays, sloughs, and open coastl ines along the Pacific coast. This clam primarily inhabits the intertidal zone, but also occurs in subtidal areas. It ranges from the Aleutian Islands to Socorro Island, Mexico. It is commercially important only in Br{tish Columbia and Washington, where it is a highly regarded table item.

Spawning in littleneck clams occurs from April to October and appears to be temperature related. Spawners are either hermaphroditic or of separate sex. Only a portion of the gametes ripen at one time, and clams may spawn several times during a season.