Megapitaria aurantiaca
NameMegapitaria aurantiaca
Scientific NameMegapitaria aurantiaca
Common NameOrange Giant Clam
FamilyVeneridae
GenusMegapitaria
Speciesaurantiaca
Geographic DistributionEastern Pacific, ranging from Baja California, Mexico, southwards along the coast to Peru.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)Up to 100-150 mm in length.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, thick shell, distinctive glossy orange-brown coloration, prominent concentric growth lines, and anteriorly placed umbones. Its overall robust appearance and vibrant color are key identifiers.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Sowerby I, 1831)
Description
Megapitaria aurantiaca, commonly known as the Orange Giant Clam, is a large, thick-shelled bivalve mollusk. Its shell is characterized by a glossy, vibrant orange-brown to reddish-brown coloration and prominent concentric growth lines. It is an equivalve species, meaning both valves are of equal size and shape, with moderately inflated shells and anteriorly placed umbones. This species is a filter feeder, inhabiting sandy or muddy substrates in the Eastern Pacific.
