Features: The purple varnish clam is named for the purple hue found inside the clam and the shiny varnish over the brown color outside the shell. It is oval in shape and is relatively flat with a prominent ligament near the hinge. 

Habitat: These clams can be found in cobble to muddy substrate. 

Technique: Purple varnish clams are found in very high densities. Limits were recently increased and separated to allow increased harvest of these clams. Be sure to check biotoxin safety closures before harvesting these clams by going to ODA’s website or by calling the shellfish harvest hotline 1-800-448-2474.

How to dig purple varnish clams (video)