Eight types of Giant Clams currently exist globally, all of which are on the CITES list of endangered species. Only two of the smaller species are found in the Indian Ocean today. Black Pearl Seychelles Ltd. specializes in breeding the Tridacna Maxima clam. 

 

The giant clam operation is located on shore in eight shallow pools or "raceways". The clams are exported as aquarium animals to Europe and USA. Indeed, they make beautiful decorations in marine aquariums with colours ranging from electric blue, vivid green, subtle pink and purple to golden. They all display different intricate patterns which makes each unique.

 

Giant clams live in symbiosis with a micro algae called zooxanthellae, and through photosynthesis, the zooxanthellae feed glucose directly into the bloodstream of the clam host. This is the principal reason for its ability to obtain its impressive size in the relative nutrient-poor tropical waters.