Giant clam

Giant clam

Tridacna gigas

Critically Endangered
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DESCRIPTION

Tridacna gigas, commonly known as the giant clam, is the largest living bivalve mollusc, capable of reaching lengths of up to 1.5 meters and weights exceeding 300 kilograms. It inhabits shallow coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific, primarily obtaining nutrients through filter-feeding plankton and from a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae algae in its mantle tissues. This sessile creature is diurnal, relying on sunlight for its algal symbionts, and can live for over 100 years in the wild.

Max Length 1.5 m
Max Weight 330 kg
Lifespan 40 - 100 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef
Depth Range Up to 20 m
Diet Filter feeder
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Solitary
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Giant clam

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Giant clam

Range

Where Giant clam has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Giant clam

Where can you see the Giant clam?

The Giant clam can be seen at 32 dive destinations in 8 countries. The best spots include Great Barrier Reef (Australia), Abu Dabbab (Egypt), Aliwal Shoal (South Africa), Anilao (Philippines), and Apo Reef (Philippines).

What is the best time to see the Giant clam?

The Giant clam is most often seen at Tubbataha Reefs from March to June.

Can you see the Giant clam all year round?

Yes. At Great Barrier Reef, Abu Dabbab, Anilao, Apo Reef, and Ari Atoll, the Giant clam is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Giant clam in Australia?

In Australia, you can see the Giant clam at Great Barrier Reef, Lady Elliot Island, Ningaloo reef, and Ribbon Reefs.

Where can you see the Giant clam in Egypt?

In Egypt, you can see the Giant clam at Abu Dabbab, Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, Elphinstone Reef, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh.

Where can you see the Giant clam in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Giant clam at Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, Fuvahmulah, North Male Atoll, and Vaavu Atoll.

How big does the Giant clam get?

The Giant clam can reach up to 1.5 m in length and 330 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Giant clam live in?

The Giant clam is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, and coral reef.

How deep does the Giant clam live?

The Giant clam lives down to 20 m.

What does the Giant clam eat?

Strains plankton and tiny particles straight out of the water as it swims.

When is the Giant clam most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

Does the Giant clam live in groups?

No. The Giant clam is mostly solitary and is usually seen on its own.

How long does the Giant clam live?

The Giant clam lives 40 to 100 years.

What is the conservation status of the Giant clam?

The Giant clam is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

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