Hippopus hippopus

Distribution / Background

The Hippopus Clam, also known as Bear Paw Clam, Horse’s Hoof Clam, and the Strawberry Clam, is found in the Indo-Pacific region and is hunted for food and souvenirs. Hippopus hippopus was first described by Linnaeus in 1758.As the H. hippopus grows, it loses its byssal gland and relies solely on its size and weight to hold its place. Because of this, it is usually found lose on sandy bottoms or near-reef flats. It can be found in the shallows and as deep as 19.7 feet (6 meters). The clam doesn’t burrow so the shell is exposed and is usually found with various organisms hitching rides.

Status

The Hippopus hippopus is currently not listed on the IUCN Red List, however its close relative the China Clam Hippopus porcellanus is listed as LR/cd – Lower Risk: conservation dependent Species.

Description

Hippopus hippopus by Gerald Heslings of IPSF The Hippopus Clam Hippopus hippopus can grow to a maximum length of 18 inches (45cm).

Some characteristics of the H. hippopus clam:

• The mantle is dull green/brown to gray with some faint gold stripes.
• The mantle doesn’t extend past the edge of the shell.
• Shells are thick and very heavy.
• Shells will have reddish blotches.
• Inhalant siphon does not have tentacles.
• Byssus gland is very narrow and the opening is bordered with interlocking teeth.

As the Hippopus Clam grows it loses its byssal gland and relies solely on its size and weight to hold its place.