Ecology, Environment and Conservation Paper

STATUS OF GIANT CLAMS IN SAVU SEA, INDONESIA

Ma. Rio A. Naguit, Wilson L. Tisera, Beatrix M. Rehatta, Hilconida P. Calumpong and A.R.F. Anakotta

Abstract

The abundance of giant clam population and recruits was assessed using triplicated 50 m x 50 m belt transects per sampling site in 16 sites in Savu Sea, Soutern Indonesia. Four species were seen during the survey: Tridacna crocea, T. maxima, T. squamosa and Hippopus hippopus with T. maxima as the most common in all sites. Clam density ranged from 0.27 ind./m2. Coastal communities harvest the clams for food and other projects hence the need to conserve and restock giant clams around Savu Sea through partnership with the fishing communities.