【Reading】くろみるがい

【English Name】Mirugai (Keen's Gaper Clam)

Kuro-mirugai (black mirugai) is a name referring to mirukui (geoduck-like keen's gaper / Tresus keenae), a large bivalve of the family Mactridae. Because namigai (white mirugai / gaper) is widely distributed as a substitute, the name hon-miru (true miru) is also used to avoid confusion.

The shell grows to about 15 cm, and the siphon extending greatly from the rear end is the external landmark. The outer skin of the siphon is dark brown, and the seaweed called miru (Codium) may take root on it. The figure of the siphon drawn in tight appearing as if it is holding miru in its mouth is said to be the origin of the name.

The part used as a sushi topping is the siphon, with its crunchy texture and elegant sweetness as the appeal. In addition to nigiri and sashimi, it is also served grilled. Domestic catches have decreased greatly, and it is now counted among the very finest sushi toppings. Chinese and Korean products account for the majority of distribution, and domestic hon-miru is treated as special even at sushi restaurants.

It inhabits the seabeds where sand and mud mix in inner-bay areas such as the Seto Inland Sea, Mikawa Bay, and Tokyo Bay, living by taking in plankton and organic matter.