CLAMS
THE BENEFICIAL BIVALVES
HARD-SHELL CLAM
Genus Mercenaria
OUR PROJECT
By the summer of 2022, we plan to strategically plant three million adult clams and five million “seed clams” throughout the Brevard County portion the Indian River Lagoon. Take a closer look below at how this project works.
CLAM DEPLOYMENT PROCESS
CLAMS PRODUCED
University of Florida Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience produces clams from their “super clam” stock.
CLAMS PLANTED
Adult clams are planted on the lagoon bottom and covered by nets for protection, and “seed clams” are spread on existing oyster reefs.
LOCATIONS SELECTED
Installation sites are chosen with the help of residents living along the lagoon.
GRASSES ADDED
Florida Oceanographic Society provides aquatic grasses to be added to certain clam beds.
HOW CLAMS HELP
As filter feeders, hard clams have tremendous potential to aid in the reduction of nutrients in the lagoon. This is necessary for seagrass growth and the foundation of a healthy lagoon system.
MEASURES OF SUCCESS
Routine site monitoring will measure clam survival rates.
The clams’ growth rate will be checked to determine physical growth and nutrient removal.
Routine water samples will be taken during spawning season to determine the presence and concentration of clam larvae, which would indicate successful spawning.
HELP US RESTORE OUR SHORES
We need you! This project would not be possible without the help of volunteers to have their sites evaluated for clam builds. Selected property owners will provide routine maintenance of clam beds to ensure survivability.