Solenidae

Solenidae is a family of bivalve molluscs, commonly known as razor clams or razor shells. These marine animals are characterized by their elongated, narrow, and symmetrical shells, which resemble a razor blade. The shells are typically smooth and thin, with a distinctive hinge structure.

Razor clams are found in marine environments worldwide, inhabiting sandy or muddy substrates in intertidal and subtidal zones. They are deposit feeders, burrowing into the sediment with a powerful muscular foot. Their burrowing behavior allows them to escape predators and strong currents.

The family Solenidae contains several genera, including Solen, Ensiculus, and Phaxas. Species within this family vary in size, with some reaching up to 20 centimeters in length. Their diet consists primarily of plankton and other small organic particles suspended in the water.

Razor clams play a role in marine ecosystems as prey for various animals, including shorebirds, fish, and crabs. In some regions, they are also harvested by humans for consumption, valued for their tender flesh. The distribution and abundance of different species can be influenced by factors such as water temperature, salinity, and substrate type. Research on Solenidae contributes to our understanding of marine invertebrate biology, ecology, and evolutionary relationships within the bivalve class.