The tentacles and mantle of a Lima scabra file clam filter
feeding Music, Video, and Aquarium 2010 Morphologic Studios Lima
scabra is a common resident on Floridian and Caribbean reefs
where it can be found wedged in crevices, with only its long
tentacles extending out into the water column. Usually these
tentacles are crimson red (as seen in the specimen above),
although they are occasionally white in color. Lima scabra can
grow to about 3.5 (9cm) inches long. Like most bivalves, Lima
scabra is a filter feeder. It siphons water in through its
fleshy mantle (seen in the video), and strains any edible
particulate matter before pumping the water back it out. It
holds itself semi-permanently in place through the use of
‘byssus threads’. The threads are formed by a viscous protein
secretion that cures instantly upon contact with seawater. These
byssus threads have captured the attention of bio-engineers who
seek to replicate their strong adhesive properties for
industrial applications. However, if the clam comes