Landlocked Mermaid

December is a time to look back and reflect on the year. So, I am taking the opportunity to look back on all the critters featured on #MCotM this year! February: Giant Clam They live in the Indo-Pacific Ocean, found in tropical waters and reefs like the Great Barrier Reef. They like warm waters, no deeper than 20m (66ft), so it is nice and light for them. This is because they have a symbiotic relationship with algae, who rely on photosynthesis for food. Giant clams are the biggest species of clam, growing up to 120cm (47") and weighing up to 200kg (440lbs). It is believed they can live up to 100 years. They are, unfortunately, being hunted to extinction by humans - for profit and food. It is the only species of clam which cannot completely close its shell. March: Nautilus The nautilus is a type of cephalopod, which is the same family as squid and octopus. They have been around since there were dinosaurs on the planet, making them something of a ...

Giant Clam Tridacna Gigas Photo from Maritime Review Kingdom: Animalia Class: Bivalvia Conservation Status: Vulnerable (Vu) WHERE ARE THEY FOUND? Giant clams are found across the South Pacific and Indian Oceans. They live off the coast of Australia, the Philippines, India, and East Africa. These are mostly tropical waters. WHAT IS THEIR HABITAT? They live in reefs like the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia. They can be found in depths up to 20m (66ft) upon coral sands or broken coral. Being relatively shallow, these waters are light and warm, and support quite a complex ecosystem. Giant clams share their home with microscopic plankton and phytoplankton as well as bigger creatures such as dolphins, whales, sharks, and sea turtles. Not to mention the thousands of fish species which reefs support. Photo from 1770 Reef WHAT DO THEY EAT? Giant clams are filter feeders. They eat the microscopic life forms floating in the water co...