Asian Clam
Corbicula fluminea
This record describes Corbicula fluminea (species). Recorded family: Cyrenidae. Recorded order: Veneroida.
Identification and Appearance
The outside of the shell is normally greeny-yellow with concentric rings. The colour can flake, leaving white spots. The shells are lightly purple on the inside. A freshwater species moving through our river and canal systems An invasive species now found in the River Trent system and also the lower Thames, Medway, Great Ouse systems and one site in south Wales near Cardiff. It is likely to occupy all parts of the central English canal basin in next by the mid 2020s.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
A freshwater species moving through our river and canal systems
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
An invasive species now found in the River Trent system and also the lower Thames, Medway, Great Ouse systems and one site in south Wales near Cardiff. It is likely to occupy all parts of the central English canal basin in next by the mid 2020s.
About Veneroida: the wider group
Order-level background for Veneroida, the group containing Corbicula fluminea. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
This is a smaller arthropod order with specialized ecological roles. Arthropods are the most diverse animal phylum, comprising over 80% of all known animal species with approximately 1.2 million described species globally.
Ecological role of the group
Members of this order contribute to broader arthropod ecosystem functions including decomposition, predation, and serving as food sources for vertebrates. Arthropod biodiversity is essential for ecosystem resilience.
Economic and practical significance of the group
While this order has limited direct economic impact, arthropods collectively provide ecosystem services worth trillions of dollars annually through pollination, decomposition, pest control, and nutrient cycling.
Recorded sources for this group: General entomology and arthropod research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Asian Clam (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Asian Clam
What is Asian Clam?
Asian Clam (Corbicula fluminea) is a species in the family Cyrenidae, within the order Veneroida.
Where is Asian Clam found?
Habitat: A freshwater species moving through our river and canal systems
When is Asian Clam active?
Asian Clam: seasonal activity - All year round..