SOLEN LAMARCKII

Solen Lamarckii is commonly known as the Asian razor clam. Reaching a maximum length of 10 cm, it is appreciated for its unique and distinctive shape, often compared to old-fashioned straight razors.

Morphological characteristics of Solen Lamarckii

The shell is equivalve and inequilateral, with an elongated shape. Each valve has a long, narrow body. The umbones are not prominent, and the foot is cylindrical. As for the margins:

• the dorsal margin is not concave;
• the ventral margins are parallel, long, and almost straight;
• the anterior margin is characterized by the absence of transverse grooves.

Both valves have a hinge, each with a single cardinal tooth. Multiple concentric growth lines can be observed, which change sharply and abruptly along the diagonal line. The periostracum is prominent and shiny.

The external coloration is yellowish-brown, with purplish concentric bands and a purplish-brown periostracum. The interior is whitish.

Solen Lamarckii distribution and habitat

They are mainly found in the Indo-Pacific waters, particularly from India and Sri Lanka to Borneo and the Philippines, including the South China Sea and Taiwan.

Like other species, razor clams are very quick and efficient at burrowing deep into the sand to avoid capture. For this reason, they are rarely seen in marine waters, as they hide in the sandy substrate.

To spot them, they need to be in ideal, comfortable habitats, only then will you see them freely moving about with their siphon protruding from the substrate.

Thanks to the siphon, they:

1. inhale water currents;
2. filter food particles;
3. feed efficiently.