A fishery for arkshell (blood) clams, Noetia ponderosa and Anadara ovalis, began in the early 1990s on the Eastern Shore of Virginia.  Several studies were conducted to learn more about these two species for purposes of fishery management and future aquaculture endeavors.  Gametogenic cycles of both species were studied, as well as condition index for Noetia ponderosa, the more abundant blood clam in the fishery. Laboratory and field predation experiments were also conducted to identify potential predators and estimate predation rates.  Spawning patterns for the two species differ substantially, with Noetia spawning during the winter and summer months, and Anadara spawning only during summer months. Condition index for Noetia ranged from 7.4 to 11.3 and generally reflected stages of gametogenesis throughout the year as well as fluctuations in water temperatures in the spring and fall. The xanthid crab, Panopues herbstii, is the major predator of juvenile Anadara (about 20 mm in height).