Veneridae

Veneridae is a diverse family of marine bivalve mollusks in the order Venerida, commonly known as Venus clams. The group comprises numerous genera and species found in temperate and tropical seas worldwide. Members typically inhabit sandy or muddy substrates from shallow tidal zones to deeper subtidal habitats and are often coastal in distribution.

Morphologically, Veneridae species usually have equivalved, laterally compressed shells with a rounded to oval outline. The hinge often bears cardinal and lateral teeth, and the exterior surface can be smooth or ribbed with growth lines. Inside, the shell margins house two adductor muscles, and many species possess a well-developed siphon system used for feeding and respiration while buried in sediment.

Ecology and life history: Veneridae are filter feeders that burrow into sediment and extend siphons to the water column to collect suspended particles and phytoplankton. Reproduction is commonly gonochoric with external fertilization, and early life stages are planktonic veligers that develop into juveniles. The family has a long fossil record and includes many species that have been exploited by humans for food.

Economic and human use: Several Veneridae species are important commercially, including Mercenaria mercenaria (hard clam) and Ruditapes philippinarum (Manila clam), both widely harvested and cultured for consumption. Other species are collected for shell and ornament. Pressure from overharvesting, habitat loss, and pollution has affected some populations, prompting management and conservation efforts in various regions.