Giant Clam (Kima)
Tridacna spp.
A spectacular reef bivalve that can be enormous and brightly colored, with a living mantle that hosts symbiotic algae. Giant clams help filter water and contribute to reef productivity, but many populations have been heavily depleted by harvesting.
HabitatShallow coral reefs and reef flats
DietFilter-feeding plus symbiotic algae photosynthates
SizeUp to 1.2 meters
BehaviorSessile; mantle open in sunlight; closes when disturbed
Where you might see it
On clear, shallow coral gardens around the Togeans, scan reef flats and bommies for large shells with vivid mantles, especially on less disturbed sites.
How to spot it
Look for a thick, ridged shell embedded in coral rock with a bright, wavy mantle. Approach slowly sudden shadows can make it clamp shut.
Responsible Encounter Guidelines
- •Never touch the mantle (it can stress the animal).
- •Don’t stand/kneel on reef to photograph it.
- •No souvenir collection clams are targeted.
- •Avoid stirring sediment over reef flats.
- •Use buoyancy control; keep fins up.
Gallery
Conservation Status
Status varies by species; some giant clams are Critically Endangered due to overharvest and habitat decline.