The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has announced a proposal for an American program aimed at protecting ten species of large clams. These impressively sized mollusks, which can grow to over a meter in size, are excessively harvested for both the food industry and marine aquaria.
Julia Sigwart from the Senckenberg Research Institute and Museum emphasizes that recognizing the threats these species face from the U.S. government is crucial for their protection. NOAA has identified five species: Hippopus porcellanus, Tridacna mbalavuana, Tridacna squamosina, Tridacna derasa, and Tridacna gigas, as currently endangered. Additionally, the species Hippopus hippopus will soon also be recognized as endangered due to a high risk of extinction.
NOAA also proposes to classify four other species (Tridacna crocea, Tridacna maxima, Tridacna noae, and Tridacna squamosa) as endangered, not due to a direct threat of extinction, but to prevent the import of their meat or shells. The problem is the difficulty for customs officers to distinguish between endangered species and those not designated as endangered. This action is purely preventive.
If the new regulations are introduced next year, they could result in stringent provisions under the endangered species protection law. Such a regulation could end the aquarium trade market dealing with clams, damaging demand and funding for captive breeding. The result could be job losses, thereby eliminating livelihoods for those working in this industry. Meanwhile, the impact on the protection of wild populations of giant clams could be minimal.
Moreover, the strategy of listing additional species as endangered often proves to be ineffective in practice. Although it theoretically provides legal protection, it rarely translates into tangible benefits for the species. Introducing such restrictions can also unnecessarily hinder the development of breeding and conservation initiatives that could significantly contribute to the rebuilding of wild populations.
NOAA argues that the bans will generally benefit the conservation of giant clams living outside the U.S. jurisdiction and provide additional protection for three species found in U.S. waters (Tridacna gigas, Tridacna derasa, and Hippopus hippopus). According to the Endangered Species Act, federal agencies must consult with NOAA before undertaking actions that might harm protected species, such as building airports, piers, or approving private construction projects.
NOAA explains that this initiative aims not only to protect endangered species but also to support global conservation efforts to ensure the survival of these unique clams worldwide. The protection of these species is crucial for the health of coral reef ecosystems, where they serve a filtering role.
NOAA plans to conduct a series of consultations and public meetings that will allow the international community to express their opinions on this matter. The regulations aimed at protecting these magnificent clams are intended to influence conservation activities both at the local and international levels. The agency is accepting comments on the American endangered species protection program at:
https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/NOAA-NMFS-2017-0029-0027
About the author
Grzegorz Bubak
My fascination with marine aquariums began over two decades ago when I stumbled upon an article about this topic in a magazine. Since then, the underwater world has become my obsession and passion, shaping my everyday life. I started my adventure with marine aquariums with soft corals, which were my first step into this fascinating world. Over time, captivated by the diversity and beauty of SPS corals, I decided to focus on their cultivation, which continues to fill me with constant wonder.
Thanks to my experience and passion for marine aquariums, I am ready to share my knowledge and expertise with other enthusiasts in this field. I am happy to be part of the Reef Pedia community, which serves as an invaluable source of information for all marine aquarium lovers.