Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of edible clam with red blood: A blood clam is a bivalve mollusk belonging to the family Arcidae, notable for having red hemoglobin in its blood, unlike most other clams which have colorless blood. This gives its tissues a reddish hue.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The seafood market sells fresh blood clams.
  • In some Asian cuisines, blood clams are often eaten raw or lightly cooked.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used specifically in marine biology and gastronomy to distinguish this clam from other species. It is often associated with discussions on food safety due to its filter-feeding nature.

Variants and Related Words

• Ark clam: A broader common name for clams in the family Arcidae, which includes blood clams.
• Anadara: The scientific genus for many species of blood clams, such as .

Synonyms

• Red clam: A less common synonym referencing the clam's distinctive blood color.
• Blood cockle: Another common name for the same type of mollusk.

Related Phrases

• Blood clam harvesting: Refers to the act of collecting these clams, often from tidal flats or shallow waters.

Related Idioms

Noun

1. red-blooded clam