Mussels

Scientific name
Glycymeris ovata

English name
Bittersweet clams

General description
Bittersweet clams (Glycymeris ovata) are bivalve mollusks that inhabit sandy and muddy bottoms in coastal areas, where they remain partially buried. Unlike the more commonly known mussels attached to rocks, this species exhibits more infaunal behavior, living within the sediment and filtering the surrounding water.

They feed on phytoplankton and suspended organic matter, playing a fundamental role as filter feeders that contribute to water clarity and nutrient recycling in marine ecosystems.

Their shells are robust, rounded, and have well-marked concentric striations, which provides them with protection against predators and variable environmental conditions. They are relatively long-lived species and sensitive to changes in water quality, making them good indicators of environmental health.