Carpet Shell Clam

The carpet shell clam (Ruditapes decussatus) is a prized European bivalve found in sandy and muddy substrates along the Atlantic coasts of France, Spain, and Portugal, and in the Mediterranean. It is the species known as palourde in France and almeja fina in Spain, where it commands premium prices and is protected by designated origin regulations in certain regions. The flesh is firm, sweet, and full of brine flavour, suited to eating raw on the half shell or in pasta preparations. In tinned conservas it appears from Spanish and Portuguese producers as one of the finest clam species available, typically packed in natural juices or lightly salted brine.