Solen
Razor Shell is a bivalve of the family Pharidae. It is found on sandy beaches in northern Europe (south to the Bay of Biscay). In some locations, the common name "razor shell" is also used to refer to members of the family Solenidae, including species of the genera Ensis and Solen, by some taxonomic classifications which include the family Pharidae within the family Solenidae. It prefers coarser sand than its relatives E. ensis and E. siliqua.
The shells of the razor shell are asymmetrically inflated, and more so near the anterior end where they form a triangular 'beak' or rostrum with rounded corners and smooth edges unlike those of mussels which have sharp edges and corners. The posterior end is more or less triangular in shape.
As with other members of its family, the shell is round-oval and equivalve with a prominent beak at the anterior end. The brown periostracum (covering) is thin and sometimes tinged yellowish or pinkish. There are no teeth on the hinge. The lower valve is slightly convex, the upper one concave.
The largest recorded specimen was 120 centimeters (47 in) long with a shell diameter of 36 cm (14 in). These large sizes are rarely seen today because it is illegal to catch them due to conservation laws, and they tend to be caught as bycatch in various fisheries.
It is widespread on the coasts of Europe, especially in northern Europe. It has also been found in Bermuda and the west coast of North America from British Columbia to Mexico. The Atlantic populations are genetically distinct from Pacific ones indicating separate colonization events or long-term separation.
Razor shells live buried in the sand to a depth of about 20 cm (8 inches). The shell is triangular in cross-section and very elongated with parallel sides, reaching up to 21 cm (8.3 inches) in length. The shell is beautifully marked, often appearing in browns and purples with wavy radial markings on a pearly white background. The razor shell can be found around the coasts of Great Britain but it is not abundant anywhere. It prefers coarser sand than its relatives E. ensis and E. siliqua.
Razor shells are usually found buried in the sand but they do also inhabit gravel and shingle where they often grow to a larger size than they do on sandy beaches. The razor shell is extremely long-lived, with individuals reaching up to 22 years old. It can be found at depths of between 5m and 20m.
In the Lower Hutt city in New Zealand, there is a suburb called Taita, which means "Tall" in Māori language. There is also a beach area at the foot of the hill where they are abundant here.
The razor shell can be any of several species of large edible marine bivalve mollusks in the family Pharidae. Species of Ensis are razor clams. Species of Solen, especially Ensis magnus, are often referred to as razor shells.
The common name "razor shell" is also used to refer to members of the family Solenidae, including species of the genera Ensis and Solen. The razor shell, Ensis magnus, also called razor clam, razor fish or spoot (colloquially), is a bivalve of the family Pharidae. It is found on sandy beaches in northern Europe (south to the Bay of Biscay).
Global solen production
Solen fish are a popular seafood item worldwide, with global production estimated at over 1.5 million tons in 2017. China is the leading producer of solen fish, accounting for nearly 50% of global production. Other major producers include Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines.
Solen fish are typically sold fresh, but they can also be frozen or canned. They are versatile seafood items that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to stir-fries and curries.
Solen fish are a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. They are also low in calories and cholesterol, making them a healthy choice for those looking to improve their heart health.