Mangrove Clam

The mangrove clam (Geloina erosa), commonly called mud clam or Kandal Kakka in Kerala, is a burrowing bivalve found in mangrove ecosystems of the Indo-Pacific region. Recently, the ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute achieved its successful captive breeding.
Habitat: Found in muddy, brackish to near-freshwater regions of mangrove swamps.
Characteristics: Burrowing, filter-feeding species with high salinity tolerance.
Life Cycle: Larval → Spat → Juvenile → Adult stages.
Ecological Role: Nutrient recycling, sediment stabilisation, and mangrove ecosystem support.
Threats: Overharvesting, habitat degradation, pollution, and coastal development.