In suitable environments, clams inhabit coastal waters from Florida to the Gulf of St. Lawrence and along the Gulf of Mexico to the Yucatan Peninsula. Clams indigenous to South Carolina are predominantly the northern quahog. Clams prefer a shell and sand substrate over muddy bottoms. Clams usually occur in groups, so when one clam is found, the chances of finding others in the same area are good. However, populations often occur in areas where the salinity is higher or lower than ideal.
Growth occurs throughout the year in South Carolina.
Most spawning begins in the spring, continues through midsummer and may resume in September, continuing through October. Depending on water temperature, it normally requires two to four weeks from spawning until the juvenile clam burrows into bottom sediments. Unless protected by overlying shell, juvenile clams are easy prey for crabs. Clams feed upon plankton through a double-tubed siphon which operates like a snorkel. The siphon serves to obtain food and eliminate waste products.