Ronias

Ronias is a genus of marine bivalve molluscs belonging to the family Donacidae. These bivalves are commonly known as coquinas or donax clams. Ronias species are characterized by their small, wedge-shaped shells, which are typically smooth and brightly colored, often featuring shades of purple, pink, or orange. The shell's exterior is often marked with concentric growth lines.

These clams are filter feeders, using their siphons to draw in water and strain out plankton and other organic matter for sustenance. They are infaunal, meaning they burrow into soft sediments such as sand and mud, primarily in intertidal and shallow subtidal zones. Their distribution is widespread, with various species found in temperate and tropical waters worldwide, particularly along sandy beaches.

Ronias clams play a role in their ecosystems by filtering water and serving as a food source for various predators, including shorebirds and fish. Some species are also harvested for human consumption, though their small size often makes this practice more common in certain regions than others. The genus is named in honor of the biologist R. R. Ronias.