Fluted Clam Shell

The Fluted Giant Clam, Tridacna squamosa, is one of a number of large clam species native to the shallow coral reefs of the South Pacific and Indian Oceans. It is distinguished by the presence of large leaf-like fluted edges on its shell called 'scutes' which are often used as shelter by organisms such as small crabs, clams and other invertebrates. Normal colouration of the mantle ranges from browns and purples to greens, blues and yellows which are arranged in elongated linear or spot-like patterns. The two-part shell has 5-6 rows of deep open flutes on the valves. The wavy shell opening faces the sunlight, while the hinged side is firmly attached to rocks or coral rubble in relatively shallow water near living reefs.