Geoduck
The geoduck is a large burrowing saltwater clam, scientifically known as *Panopea generosa*.
The geoduck is a large burrowing clam native to the Pacific coast of North America. It is known for its long siphon and high value as a seafood delicacy.
What it is
The geoduck (*Panopea generosa*) is a marine bivalve mollusc and the largest known burrowing clam. Its most distinctive feature is a very long siphon that can extend up to 1.3 m and cannot be fully retracted into the shell. The shell itself is rectangular to square-shaped, white to light brown, and typically reaches 180–230 mm in length.
Where it lives
Geoducks are native to the Pacific coast of North America, from Alaska to Baja California. They live buried in sand, mud, or gravel in intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, at depths from the intertidal down to at least 110 m. In Canada, they are especially common along the coast of British Columbia.
Why it matters
Geoducks are commercially harvested and farmed, particularly in Washington State and British Columbia. They are considered a high-value seafood item, often exported and sold at premium prices. In Canada, the geoduck supports a significant commercial fishery and is part of the regional seafood culture.
In short
- Largest known burrowing clam in the world.
- Lives buried in coastal sediments from Alaska to Baja California.
- Siphon can extend up to 1.3 m.
- High-value seafood, commercially harvested in BC and Washington.
Geoduck is native to the Pacific coast of Canada, especially British Columbia, where it supports commercial fisheries and is part of regional seafood culture.
Quick questions
What is a geoduck clam?
How big do geoduck clams get?
Is geoduck expensive?
Sources
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada — https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/species-especes/profiles-profils/geoduck-clam-panope-pac-eng.htmlSupports: Species identity, size description, habitat depth, and Canadian/Pacific distribution.
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game — https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=geoduck.printerfriendlySupports: Species identity, maximum shell size, weight, and distribution from California to Alaska.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/geoduckSupports: Scientific classification, habitat, shell length, siphon length, and maximum weight.
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration — https://www.noaa.gov/species/geoduckSupports: Distribution along the U.S. West Coast and commercial harvest/aquaculture context.
- Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife — https://wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/species/panopea-generosaSupports: Abundance in Puget Sound, range, and commercial fishery context.
- BBC News — https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-33261666Supports: High market value and examples of restaurant pricing.
- IFLScience — https://www.iflscience.com/what-is-a-geoduck-the-oceans-giant-burrowing-clam-57981Supports: Common preparation methods such as raw slicing and brief blanching.