Searching the Virtually Extinct Tridacna gigas (Linnaeus, 1758) in the Reefs of Palawan, Philippines

Despite being considered virtually extinct in Palawan, Philippines since the 1980s, Tridacna gigas, the largest extant reef-associated bivalve, persists in small numbers. A study recorded 29 live individuals and 97 empty shells, with most shells repurposed for decoration. Live T. gigas were predominantly found in Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and island resorts, indicating effective conservation efforts. These remaining specimens hold potential for breeding and restocking programs to restore declining populations. The research relied on field reports, key informant interviews, and site visits over five months, providing the first updated assessment of T. gigas in Palawan since its presumed extinction.

Mecha, N. J. M. F., & Dolorosa, R. G. (2020). Searching the Virtually Extinct Tridacna gigas (Linnaeus, 1758) in the Reefs of Palawan, Philippines. The Philippine Journal of Fisheries, 1–18. https://doi.org/10.31398/tpjf/27.1.2019-0005