We can be mature about this, right? These are Geoduck Clams. In the Pacific Northwest, one of the most impressive creatures you’ll encounter is the geoduck. This is no ordinary clam; it’s the world’s largest burrowing clam. Geoducks are abundant in the inland waters of Puget Sound, British Columbia, and Alaska, where they support vital commercial fisheries. Recreational fishers are drawn to geoduck, but accessing intertidal geoduck populations can be challenging due to limited upland beach access. Harvesting geoduck during low tides (at least -2.0 foot or lower) can be quite a spectacle, often attracting large crowds at popular state park locations. Now, let’s dive deeper into the world of the geoduck. Named ‘gooey duck’ by the Nisqually Tribe, this bivalve boasts unique qualities that may surprise you. Despite its peculiar appearance, the geoduck is a delicacy in many countries and holds significant value. Geoducks call Puget Sound their home, thriving in the Pacific Northwest. They may look goofy with their long, leathery necks, but these features serve them well in their daily activities and defense mechanisms. Their small shells (typically 6 to 8 inches) contrast with their incredibly long bodies, which can stretch over three feet and weigh up to 14 pounds! What makes the geoduck truly captivating is its feeding and defense strategies. Their double-barreled necks, called siphons, are used to filter-feed on phytoplankton. Geoducks are masters at drawing phytoplankton into one side of the siphon while expelling water through the other, showcasing their unique adaptability. These clams are quite the homebodies, burrowing into the ocean floor or mud beds and staying in one place for life. While we’ve never captured this process on film for geoducks, we have a similar clam, the Pacific Northwest Razor Clam, to give you a glimpse of what it’s like. Did you know that the geoduck trade is a multimillion-dollar industry, with Asia being a major market? Although the seafood industry faced challenges due to COVID-19, there’s hope for recovery. In British Columbia, geoducks are highly sought after for their purported aphrodisiac properties, though prices have seen fluctuations. Before we wrap up, let’s share some fun geoduck facts: • The oldest recorded live geoduck reached a remarkable 168 years. • Geoducks are so valuable that there’s evidence of them being traded for narcotics. • In their first year, these clams are smaller than a dime. • In China, geoducks are affectionately known as ‘elephant trunk clams.’ • SCUBA divers use high-pressure water to ‘dig’ out geoducks. In conclusion, geoducks may be quirky-looking, but they are gaining popularity worldwide. Whether enjoyed as a culinary delicacy or simply appreciated for their uniqueness, these clams have a story worth sharing. Stay curious, and keep exploring! Hope that helps! - @mitchck