Cockles are a bivalve mollusc belonging to the venereid family. They are characterised by an oval, elongated shell with a rough, ridged outer surface. The shell is greyish or dark brown in colour, although in some cases it may have greenish or bluish tones.
Inside, cockles have an elongated, muscular, cream or yellowish-coloured body, which is used for locomotion and feeding. These molluscs feed on plankton and small organic particles they find in the water, filtering them through their gills.
Cockles are highly valued in gastronomy due to their flavour and texture, and can be prepared in various ways. They are also a source of protein, vitamins and minerals essential to the body, such as iron and calcium.