Horseshoe clam

Horseshoe clam

 

Scientific name : Hippopus hippopus

 

Class : Bivalvia (bivalve molluscs : oysters, mussels, cockles…)
Size : Up to 45 cm
Distribution : Indo-Pacific

 

Biology : The clam can be found on sandy seabeds near reefs and in seagrass beds.
Unlike other clams, the rolling clam does not secrete byssus, the fibrous material that enables bivalves to cling to rocks.
However, it is very well adapted to its life on the sand; despite its mass, it is able to turn over and emerge from the sand if it finds itself buried.

 

IUCN status : Near threatened