Arks

Arks are box-like bivalves with thick, heavy shells that can withstand strong currents and waves. 

Three species of arks are found in the Chesapeake Bay;

• The ponderous ark, Noetia ponderosa, grows to 2.5 inches.
• The blood ark, Anadara ovalis, grows to 2 inches.
• The transverse ark, Anadara transversa, grows to 1.5 inches.

Where do arks live?

Arks are found in the salty waters of the lower Bay, from the Maryland/Virginia line southward. They use their heavy foot to anchor themselves firmly in the sand or mud. People They usually find arks half-buried in the sand or washed up on beaches. 

What do arks eat?

Arks are filter feeders, using their siphons to dine on planktonic algae.
 
How do arks reproduce?

Arks spawn throughout most of the year with a peak in the summer and fall months. Gametes mature in the spring. 

Other facts about arks:

• Most bivalves have clear transparent blood, but the blood ark is the only clam in the world that has red blood.
• Because arks are shallow diggers, their shells are often found washed up on shore after a storm. Arks that wash up on the beach rarely resemble live arks because they are eroded by pounding waves and bleached by the sun.