Kamermans et al. 2011. First pioneering laboratory experiments on filtration, respiration and growth of the razor clam (Ensis directus, Conrad).

In Dutch marine circumstances, sand extraction releases silt into the water column. The extra silt can reduce light penetration into the water and consequently algal growth. To predict potential effects of an expansion of sand extraction activities it is necessary to know possible impacts on the environment. Ensis directus, a dominant species web of the North Sea coastal zone, has a key position in the food web. Therefore, it was selected as model species in this study to predict the effects of the reduced food conditions due to sand extraction on the growth of E. directus. A DEB (Dynamic Energy Budget) model is in development. This study describes the basic experiments that have been done to determine empirical relations between clam size or food concentration and filtration, respiration and growth rates necessary for the DEB modelling. Also, the basic values on physiology itself have their value because little is known on this species.