Hecht began his study into light sensitivity with clams ("Mya arenaria") and insects. Soft clams, such as "Mya arenaria" are also attacked. These bivalves are similar to the soft-shell clams ("Mya arenaria"), but usually they are smaller. Certain clams such as "Mya arenaria" and "Macoma balthica" can be infected in experimental situations. The soft-shell clam ("Mya arenaria") is a preferred prey species of "C. maenas" .