Tridacna derasa (Röding, 1798)
Smooth giant clam
photo by FAO

Family:  Cardiidae (cockles)
Max. size:  60 cm SHL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  benthic; marine; depth range 0 - 20 m
Distribution:  Indo-West Pacific.
Diagnosis:  It is characterized by a low primary and radial sculpture, variable shape, massive umbonal area and smooth white shell.
Biology:  Locally exploited for meat and shell. This species was previously quite abundant, but has been over collected in many areas. Aquaculture attempts being made (Ref. 348). Found in intertidal areas on corals (Ref. 75831), mainly on reef flats, barrier reefs, fore reefs and atoll lagoons (Ref. 117184). Common in shallow waters wherein juveniles are byssally attached to the tops and sides of coral outcrops. Adults are thought to detach their byssus and settle in clear ocean conditions at 20 m depth (Ref. 101207).
IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable (VU); Date assessed: 01 August 1996 (A2cd) Ref. 123251)
Threat to humans: 
Country info:   
 

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