Ruditapes largillierti

Ruditapes largillierti is a species of bivalve belonging to the family Veneridae. This species is also commonly known as the Philippine Venus Clam.

Taxonomy

The scientific name of this species is Ruditapes largillierti (Philippi, 1849). It belongs to the genus Ruditapes, and the family Veneridae. The Veneridae family is a large group of medium to large saltwater clams, marine bivalve mollusks.

Description

Ruditapes largillierti is a medium-sized clam, with a shell that can reach a length of about 50-70 mm. The shell is oval, solid, and equivalve, with concentric growth lines. The color of the shell is usually white or cream, often with yellow or brown periostracum.

Distribution and Habitat

Ruditapes largillierti is native to the Indo-Pacific region. It is commonly found in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Australia. This species inhabits sandy or muddy bottoms of shallow waters, usually not deeper than 20 meters.

Ecology

Ruditapes largillierti is a filter feeder. It feeds by filtering microscopic plankton from the water. The species has a significant role in the ecosystem by filtering the water and thus contributing to its purification.

Human Use

Ruditapes largillierti is harvested for food in many parts of its range. It is a popular seafood in the Philippines and other parts of Southeast Asia.

Conservation

There are no specific conservation measures in place for Ruditapes largillierti. However, overharvesting and habitat destruction pose potential threats to the species.

See Also

• Ruditapes philippinarum
• Veneridae
• Bivalvia