Mactra (genus)

Mactra is a genus of soft-bodied saltwater clams within the family Mactridae. These bivalve mollusks have oval or elongated shells that are often smooth and may feature fine radial lines. They inhabit sandy or muddy ocean floors, where they burrow to find food and shelter. Mactra species are found in various marine environments worldwide and are appreciated for their ecological role in sediment health and as a food source for predators. Their morphology, habitat, and behavior make them an important component of benthic ecosystems.