AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -To protect themselves clams burrow down in the mud and sand using their foot. They can burrow more than 11 inches! When the tide comes in, they stick their siphons out and inhale fresh seawater to get oxygen so they can breathe. They also obtain algae, so they can eat.

Detailed explanation-2: -Braced in the sand, the clam thrusts its fleshy foot downward. Then it squeezes water into the bottom of its foot, causing the appendage to balloon. So anchored, the clam contracts. The pocket of sand around the clam “fluidizes, ” loosening up and reducing the drag on the clam, so the shell can slide down to the foot.

Detailed explanation-3: -Like all mollusks, a clam has a mantle which surrounds its soft body. It also has a muscular foot which enables the clam to burrow itself in mud or sand. The soft tissue above the foot is called the visceral mass and contains the clam’s body organs.

Detailed explanation-4: -The shells close with such force that they serve as gigantic traps.” In fact, giant clams do close in response to nearby movement to protect themselves. They don’t snap shut, however.