Giant clam
Scientific name: Tridacna gigas
Description: Giant clams filter phytoplankton and zooplankton but also rely on the symbiotic algae or zooxanthallae living inside their tissues for sustenance. They are rather large measuring up to 4 feet in length and weighing up to 500 lbs. In fact, they are the largest living mollusk on Earth. The shell is primarily covered by barnacles, sponges and other living things found in the reef allowing the clam to camouflage as well as it can while the tissue inside and on the edge of its shell is a bright blue, green or yellow color.
Fun Facts:
- Giant clams can live up to 100 years!
- Giant clams are over harvested for their meat, specifically their adductor muscle which is considered a delicacy in some countries.
