190 Edible Mollusca of the Oregon Coast 
safe foods they should be obtained from uncontaminated localities 
and be prepared as soon as possible after having been taken out 
of their natural surroundings. There is no doubt that clams and 
mussels may be contaminated by growing in water polluted by 
sewage, or if too long out of water the micro-organisms they 
contain may release toxic elements which render the shellfish not 
only unfit but highly dangerous as food. Clams or mussels taken 
from near the mouths of sewers or rendered unsafe by other 
causes should not be used, or permitted in markets for sale any 
more than spoiled produce of other kinds. 
If, however, they are taken from sanitary localities and are 
properly prepared soon after digging, or after having been ade- 
quately preserved by cold storage methods, clams and mussels will 
prove to be most excellent and nourishing food. 
1. Mya arenaria Linnaeus. 
Numerous experiments have resulted in the conclusion that 
of the bivalves mentioned above this clam has the greatest tenac- 
ity of life and will remain in an edible condition longer than any 
of the other species, after having been removed from the water. 
By icing the clam it has been kept alive for a period of 14 days 
after its removal from salt water. This would permit of its 
transportation for a considerable distance from the coast if the 
same were made under proper conditions. If kept at low tem- 
perature this species may remain in fit. condition for food for as 
long as a week after having been taken out of the water. 
Mya arenaria is abundant in the Siuslaw River and Coos 
Bay both of which are in direct connection by railroad with Wil- 
lamette Valley points. The species may be expressed from the 
coast to many inland towns or even to Portland the same day it 
is taken from the water and will remain good for the markets 
for several days after reaching its destination. 
2. Siliqua patula Dixon. 
The markets of Portland are supplied during the open sea- 
son with this species from the Clatsop County beaches, 4% to 
5 hrs. by express, or from the Washington beaches requiring 
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