The microscopic larvae bear little resemblance to parent clams. They possess short, hair-like projections called cilia with which they propel themselves. Toward the end of this free-swimming period, which may last from 5 to 16 weeks, the shells begin to form and the young start looking like clams. The young clams take up residence in the sand where their growth rate varies from area to area. Some razor clams in Alaska have attained the age of 18 years, and it s possible that older individuals exist.
Razor clams live in surf-swept and somewhat protected sand beaches of the open ocean.
They are found from approximately 4 feet above the mean low water level down to depths of 30 fathoms. Razor clams subsist on minute plants and animal life known as plankton filtered from the surrounding seawater. Rarely, small cysts can be seen imbedded in the siphon of the razor clam. They evidently do not affect the razor clam. By thorough cleaning and cooking, this parasite can be eliminated.