Arctic Rock Borer Clam Hiatella arctica
Small Arctic Rock Borer Clam in rocky habitat
Arctic Rock Borer Clam Hiatella arctica
Small Arctic Rock Borer Clam in rocky habitat

Arctic Rock Borer Clam (Hiatella arctica)

from $85.00
Quantity:

Live Arctic Rock Borer (Hiatella arctica)
Please note this is a live marine specimen.

The Arctic Rock Borer (Hiatella arctica) is a small but resilient bivalve clam found wedged among rock piles in areas of strong tidal current along the Maine coast. Adapted to harsh, cold-water environments, this species is known for boring into rock or shell substrates where it remains partially hidden. Its sturdy white shell and unique lifestyle make it a fascinating specimen for studying marine ecology, molluscan adaptations, and intertidal biodiversity. Sustainably hand-collected from the cold waters of the Gulf of Maine, this authentic species is ideal for classroom display, aquaria, and scientific research.

Key Facts:
Common name: Arctic rock borer
Scientific name:Hiatella arctica
Locations: Amidst rock piles in high current areas
Seasonality: Available year-round
Colors: White
Size: ½” – 1”
Collected: By hand
Quantity: Sold by the each
Note: This is a live marine specimen. Natural variations in size, color, and appearance from photos should be expected. If you would any specimen preserved please send a request to: info@gulfofme.com.

Live Arctic Rock Borer (Hiatella arctica)
Please note this is a live marine specimen.

The Arctic Rock Borer (Hiatella arctica) is a small but resilient bivalve clam found wedged among rock piles in areas of strong tidal current along the Maine coast. Adapted to harsh, cold-water environments, this species is known for boring into rock or shell substrates where it remains partially hidden. Its sturdy white shell and unique lifestyle make it a fascinating specimen for studying marine ecology, molluscan adaptations, and intertidal biodiversity. Sustainably hand-collected from the cold waters of the Gulf of Maine, this authentic species is ideal for classroom display, aquaria, and scientific research.

Key Facts:
Common name: Arctic rock borer
Scientific name:Hiatella arctica
Locations: Amidst rock piles in high current areas
Seasonality: Available year-round
Colors: White
Size: ½” – 1”
Collected: By hand
Quantity: Sold by the each
Note: This is a live marine specimen. Natural variations in size, color, and appearance from photos should be expected. If you would any specimen preserved please send a request to: info@gulfofme.com.

You can see the siphon of an Arctic borer coming out of the mud here - it's bright red!

You can see the siphon of an Arctic borer coming out of the mud here - it's bright red!

Tidepool Tim says,  “The borer is a neat little clam!  They don't dig into the bottom - rather they just nest themselves in amidst rocks and stones and make a go of filter feeding there.  The most striking thing about this species is their bright red siphon tips - often it's the first thing you see when you encounter them.  We find them mainly in high current areas that deliver to them lots of good feed. Occasionally we will find them in the clutches of a sea star that is more than happy to pry their shell apart and feed on their bodies!”

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