The edible clam, Katelysia opima from the Ratnagiri Coast

Abstract

The edibility of the market size (30-35 mm) clam (Katelysia opima) from the Kalbadevi Estuary (Ratnagiri) varies from 7.93 to 12.48%. This appears to be correlated with its feeding and reproduction. The clams above 33 mm in shell length are in 'best condition'. The organic constituents show high total protein and high ether soluble fat in females and a high glycogen content in males. The total protein and fat varied irrespective of the body weights in both the sexes but the glycogen content in smaller clams was higher than the larger ones. High protein content has also been observed in the adductor muscles, foot and siphons whereas high fat content occurred in digestive gland. High glycogen was found in the gonads and in the mantle of the adults