Symbiotic clam

NOT ON EXHIBIT

At the Aquarium

Natural History

In parts of Monterey Bay, sulfide can be found within the muddy seafloor. Clams living in the mud absorb this toxic chemical through their feet. The clams carry the sulfide to bacteria living inside their bodies. The bacteria use the sulfide to make food, which in turn provides nutrients for the clams.

Conservation

The deep sea may seem remote, but what we send down will eventually cycle back up into our lives. Deep-sea animals are part of a thriving ecosystem. Our trash and chemicals may harm them if we are careless with our waste.

Cool Facts

These clams may take up to 100 years to reach maturity.

Animal Facts

ON EXHIBIT
Scientific Name:
Calyptogena spp
Habitat:
Deep Sea
Animal Type:
Invertebrates
Diet:
chemosynthetic bacteria that live in the clam’s gills; the bacteria feed on sulfide and the clams in turn feed on the microbes or the nutrients they produce
Size:
C. kilmeri, 4 inches (10 cm) or larger; C. pacifica, 2.25 inches (6 cm)
Range:
seafloor
Relatives:
other clams, mussels

Celebrating 25 Years of Ocean Conservation