Although clams are typically found in sandy and muddy intertidal zones as they provide a substantial amount of food and nutrients, clams can also be found in rocky intertidal zones due to their black shells providing a sense of camouflage against the black rocks. Clams, however, are more typically found in intertidal zones that are sandy or muddy because of their ability to burrow themselves in the sand or mud, hiding from predators. As it is known clams have adapted to desiccation, salinity changes, waves, tides, predators, and competition due to their shell which surrounds their body and organs. Clams shells can open and close depending on their current situation, so if it is low tide and the water is out clams can squeeze their shell shut to avoid desiccation, this ability is also used for the other situations listed above.
