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Red Sea giant clams

Distribution : This group also occurs outside the Red Sea. Distribution depends on the species; this guide presents the representatives filmed here.

A giant clam opens its shell in the reef, revealing its colours. This animal combines water filtration with a relationship involving small algae living in its tissues. Encountering it reminds us that some reef inhabitants are best discovered by lingering in one place. Depths vary between species in this group and with their habitat.

Habitat of Red Sea giant clams Habitat
Coral reef, Rocky habitat
Depth range of Red Sea giant clams Depth
Varies with species and habitat
Biological group of Red Sea giant clams Group
Ecological role of Red Sea giant clams Role
Filter feeder

WHAT DO THEY LOOK LIKE?

Giant clams have a two-part shell and coloured tissue visible between the halves. This tissue is called the mantle; the shell has ribs and, in some species, scales. Shell shape is more useful than mantle colour alone in distinguishing species, which cannot all be identified from this clip.

WHERE DO THEY LIVE?

Giant clams use reef habitats where light reaches their mantle. Depending on species and size, they attach to a surface or settle within reef structure. Mantle orientation and exposure affect access to light; one numerical depth range cannot accurately describe the whole group.

WHAT DO THEY EAT?

Filtering provides plankton and particles; associated algae supply part of their energy resources. The association enables exchange: algae use light and the clam benefits from material they produce. The clam remains an animal even when photosynthetic partners strongly contribute to its nutrition.

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Red Sea giant clams

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