Lyonsiidae

From Natural History of Southeast Alaska
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Family: Lyonsiidae

Group: Marine Invertebrate, Species

Scientific NameCommon NameSummary
Entodesma naviculaNorthwest ugly clamThe "ugly clam" is one of the more aptly named creatures in the intertidal habitat. Its contorted shape and raggedy periostracum conspire to make it the last clam that people would want to eat. As the periostracum shrinks in dry weather or indoors, it shatters the shell. This can be prevented by soaking the shell in glycerin for a little while, if you want a specimen to impress your friends. In the field, the ugly clam is generally found by turning rocks over in muddy or gravelly locales, or by looking for the pretty siphons that are often confused with those of solitary tunicates like Sea Hedgehog (Halocynthia igaboja).