Bean Clam or Coquina Clam
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Bivalvia, Order: Cardiida, Family: Donacidae, Genus: Donax, Species: Donax variabilis · Donacidae (Bean Clam family) · Bivalve, whole shell, triangular to wedge shape
Species
Donax variabilis
Shell Type
Bivalve, whole shell, triangular to wedge shape
Family
Donacidae (Bean Clam family)
Size
Approximately 0.5 inches (12 mm), which is average for this species. Adults typically range from 0.4 to 1 inch.
Color & Pattern
Warm peach and orange tones with subtle lighter radial banding and a smooth, glossy polished surface typical of a beach-worn specimen.
Rarity
Very Common
Habitat
High-energy sandy intertidal zones of ocean beaches, burrowing rapidly into the sand in the swash zone.
Geographic Range
Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, ranging from Virginia down to Florida and the Gulf coast.
Description
A tiny, charming wedge-shaped bivalve with a smooth exterior, polished by wave action. The shell displays delightful pastel hues of peach and orange, characteristic of the highly variable color morphs found in this species.
Key Features
Wedge-shaped outline, asymmetrical valves with the posterior end shorter than the anterior, smooth glossy surface, and vibrant polymorphic coloration.
Collector Value
Low monetary value, but immensely popular among casual beachcombers for making shell crafts and colorful displays.
Condition Notes
Fair condition; weathered and tumbled by surf action with a smooth polished texture, missing the original sharp margins but retaining lovely natural color.
Interesting Facts
Coquina clams are famous for their ability to rapidly burrow back into the sand using their muscular foot when exposed by receding waves.
Ecological Role
Serves as an important food source for shorebirds, fish, and crabs in the sandy beach ecosystem, filtering organic particles from the water column.
Similar Species
Donax fossor (Eastern Little Coquina), which tends to be smaller and narrower with different habitat preferences.
Beach Finding Tips
Look in the wet swash zone of sandy ocean beaches just as the waves recede, watching for tiny bubbles or movement in the sand.