quahog

The quahog, or hard clam, refers to Mercenaria mercenaria, a species of edible saltwater clam in the family Veneridae. It is native to the western Atlantic coast of North America, from Newfoundland to Florida, and has become an important seafood in many parts of its range. The name quahog derives from a word in the Narragansett language, often cited as quohog or poquahaug, meaning “large clam” or “hard shell.”

Description and habitat: Quahogs have thick, oval shells that vary in color from gray to brown; adult shells typically range about 4 to 10 cm in length, with the interior pearly white. The shell hinges are robust, and the interior may show iridescence. They are benthic, living buried in sand or mud in estuaries, bays, and shallow coastal waters, from the intertidal zone to subtidal depths. They tolerate a range of salinities but usually inhabit brackish to full-strength seawater.

Biology and ecology: Quahogs are filter feeders. They reproduce by broadcast spawning; eggs and sperm are released into the water column, and larvae go through a free-swimming veliger stage before settling to the bottom. Individuals may live for several years. Predators include birds, crabs, and other marine creatures, as well as humans who harvest them for food.

Human use and management: Quahogs are a staple of New England and Atlantic coast cuisines and are harvested commercially and recreationally. They are used in chowders, stuffings, and other dishes, and are also grown through aquaculture programs. Because populations can be sensitive to overharvesting and habitat loss, many areas regulate harvest size and seasonality to maintain stocks.