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Invasive Species: Asian Clam

Invasive Species: Asian Clam

Asian Clam

(Corbicula fluminea)

*Detected in Michigan*

Report this species:

Use the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) online reporting tool 

- Or - download the MISIN smartphone app and report from your phone - MISIN.MSU.edu/tools/apps/#home

 

An Asian clam shell, showing the grooved shell and brownish-yellow color.

Photo courtesy of U. S. Geological Survey, Bugwood.org.

Four Asian clam shells are placed above a ruler, indicating their length at approximately 20 centimeters.

Photo courtesy of U. S. Geological Survey, Bugwood.org.

Identification:

  • Light-colored shell with well-defined, concentric grooves.
  • Usually less than an inch.
  • Shell shape is triangular to round.
  • Color ranges from yellowish to light green or light brown.

Diet: These filter feeders remove particles from the water column. They feed primarily on phytoplankton and particulate organic matter.

Habitat: Freshwater and estuarine sediment surface or slightly buried in the sediment.

Native Range: Asia, eastern Mediterranean, Africa and Australia.

U.S. Distribution: Established populations have been reported in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

Local Concern: Biofouling is the most prominent problem association with establishment of this species, especially of industrial water systems and power plants. They can cause problems in irrigation canals and pipes as well as drinking water supplies. They also compete with native species for resources.

MORE INFORMATION:

Asian Clam Invasive Species Alert - Printable PDF

Status and Strategy for Asiatic Clam Management - This document provides in-depth information about Asian Clam in the State of Michigan including identification, distribution, management, and control options.