There are many varieties of clams available in the fish markets near Conil. Whilst some are easily distinguished, the varieties which make up the finest quality can be hard to tell apart. For those clams that are difficult to tell apart I have attempted to make the task a little easier.
It is worth remembering that apart from variety, clams are often classified by size and it is not unknown for the different species to be sold mixed. Gigante: average drained weight greater than 7g. Grande: greater than 5g. Mediana: greater than 3g, Pequeña: less than 3 g.
Then comes price: Almejas Finas are held to be the best and command the highest prices. The best clams can be eaten raw like oysters or steamed. Those of lower quality should be used in sauces or in combination with other fish as a garnish.
These clams all have oval shells with both concentric rings and radial grooves
Fina: unequal concentric rings and fine radial grooves.The colour is variable, usually whitish or light brown, with brown radial bands. The inner surface is white-yellowish. The siphons are separated.
Babosa: concentric rings crossed by fine radial grooves, which are more developed at the back. The colour is cream with brown tones and darker irregular spots. The interior is whitish, sometimes showing purple or bluish marks. The siphons are joined.
Japonesa: concentric rings and radial grooves more marked than others which form a grid. The colour is variable, grey and beige and darker than others.The siphons are almost fused.
Dorada: numerous concentric rings and lines of growth are not very visible. The inner edge of the shell is smooth. The colour is light yellow, whitish or brown with numerous irregular spots (zigzag, rounded, linear) purple, reddish-brown or brown. The inner surface is brownish-white. Also known as a Bicuda.
Roja: concentric rings, and radial grooves have very different tonalities, forming characteristic zigzag patterns. Its shell is smoother and brighter and more polished than other clams. The interior is white and sometimes with pink or orange tones. The siphons are united almost to the end. Also known as Almeja Rubia or Almeja Chocha
