How are clams measured?

[Reefer Addict]

I guess the topic says it all...

I was just wondering how clams are measured... I've heard that it's 'across the mantle', but what exactly does that mean? Which direction across the mantle (side-to-side or lengthwise)?

Thanks.

[Barry N.]

Most dealers use the linear measuremet, streight across the shell.

[Reefer Addict]

Right on... thanks for the info Barry.

That's actually the way I first figured they'd be measured... but then I started hearing about the 'across the mantle' measurement 'standard' so it got me wondering.

Thanks again.

[Sue Truett]

I have seen a clam tank that had a printed ruler on the trim around the top of the tank with the measurement so you could hold the clam up and measure it. The print was on the top right side of the tank.