Giant clam

Tridacna gigas is the largest living bivalve, native to Indo-Pacific coral reefs. Its mantle hosts symbiotic algae that contribute nutrients through photosynthesis.

Connect

Zooxanthellae: Photosynthetic dinoflagellates that live in symbiosis with corals and other marine animals. These algae live in the clam’s mantle and supply photosynthetic products.
Bivalvia: A class of molluscs with bodies enclosed by two hinged shells. The giant clam is a bivalve with two shell valves joined by a hinge.
Giant clam aquaculture: The controlled breeding and cultivation of giant clams for conservation, research, or trade. Hatchery cultivation can support reef restoration and reduce pressure on wild populations.
Tridacna gigas: The largest living bivalve species, native to shallow Indo-Pacific waters. This is the scientific species name for the giant clam described here.
Mantle (mollusc): A tissue layer in molluscs that secretes the shell and often covers internal organs. In giant clams, this exposed tissue houses algae and displays vivid colors.
Mollusca: A diverse animal phylum that includes snails, clams, cephalopods, and chitons. Its body plan and shell belong to the broader mollusc lineage.
CITES: An international treaty regulating trade in endangered wild animals and plants. International trade in giant clams is regulated under CITES.
Tridacna maxima: A widespread Indo-Pacific giant clam species that usually lives attached to reef surfaces. It is smaller than T. gigas and illustrates the diversity within giant clams.
Symbiosis: A close, persistent association between organisms of different species. The clam’s association with algae is a mutually beneficial form of symbiosis.
Coral reef: A marine ecosystem built primarily by reef-forming corals and their calcium carbonate structures. Giant clams inhabit shallow Indo-Pacific reefs and depend on their light-rich waters.