What’s the difference between a clam and an oyster?
Clams and oysters have several key physical differences. Clam shells are elongated and symmetrical, while oyster shells are irregularly shaped and flatter on one side. Clam shells tend to be smaller, ranging from 1 to 6 inches in length, while oyster shells can reach lengths of up to 8 inches. Clam shells are smooth and shiny, with colors ranging from white to gray or brown, while oyster shells have a rougher texture and come in a wider range of colors including gray, brown, green, and purple. The muscle foot of clams is large and fleshy, used for burrowing or locomotion, while oysters have a smaller muscle foot that is not as prominent and primarily used for attachment to surfaces.