What are the three layers of a clam shell?
Clam shells have three layers for strength and support. Red Clam image by bluefern from Fotolia.com Clams serve a variety of purposes. Some clams make pearls, either in the wild or in a farm-like environment. Other clams are used solely for foods like clam chowder or other seafood options. The shells are often used for decorative purposes or collections. A clam makes it own shell by adding hardened muscle tissue and building out as it grows. The shell ends up with three layers that support and protect the clam inside the shell. Nacreous Layer The nacreous layer of the clam shell is the innermost layer of the shell. This is the area of the shell which touches the clam and connects the clam to the shell. The nacreous layer is smooth and made up of soothing materials for the clam that make the clam inside comfortable. Prismatic Layer The prismatic layer of the clam shell is the middle layer of the shell. The middle layer adds stability and strength to the shell and supports the outer laye
