A new species, Arca koumaci Lutaenko et Maestrati n. sp. (Bivalvia: Arcidae), is described from New Caledonia. The species is characterized by the small size, the convex shell with a strong posterior umbonal ridge covered by spikes, the widely curved ventral margin, and presence of cancellate sculpture and convergent marginal teeth. Presence of spikes on the posterior ridge is a unique morphological feature recorded for the first time in the genus. It is proposed that the only subgenus, namely Pliocene A. (Arcoptera) Heilprin, 1887, apart from nominative, can be recognized in the genus. Three morphological types are distinguished within the genus based on shell shape and sculpture. Bathymetric analysis shows that representatives of Arca inhabit water depths down to 175 m, and more than half of Recent species were found below 50 m. Types of A. bouvieri P. Fischer, 1874, Arca boucardi Jousseaume, 1894, Arca avellana Lamarck, 1819, and Arca retusa Lamarck, 1819 are illustrated.