When it comes to small-bodied seafood, “shellfish” and “clam” are the most popular varieties. In 2022, China’s clam aquaculture yielded 4.378 million tons, with a marine aquaculture area of 394,000 hectares, accounting for about 27.89% of the total shellfish production and 31.02% of the total marine aquaculture area in China (source: 2023 China Fisheries Statistical Yearbook).
There are several clam species that are popular in China, including the Filipino clam, which is commonly found in food streets, the clam praised by the Qing Emperor as the “freshest in the world”, and the Chinese “indigenous people” Dandong and “yellow clam”.
Ruditapes philippinarum,
Ruditapes philippinarum, commonly known as the flower clam or Philippine clam, has diverse surface patterns on its shells and is mainly distributed in various regions in China and around the world. It mainly inhabits inner bays with moderate freshwater injection and feeds on plankton and organic debris. The clam is globally cultivated due to its rapid growth, short breeding cycle, strong adaptability, and long survival time outside of water.
Meretrix meretrix
Meretrix meretrix, another main shellfish traditionally raised in mudflats of China, is also an aquatic product exported in large quantities by China. It is distributed along the coast of China and has a diverse appearance at different developmental stages.
Chinese clams
Chinese clams, also known as yellow clams, are mainly produced in the shallow, low salt, and sandy coastal environment of the eastern Yellow Sea around the mouth of the Yalu River in China. The sea area near Dandong Donggang is rich in nutrients, resulting in larger, meatier, and more nutritious yellow clams.
Clams’ age can be determined from the growth rings on their shells, which are similar to the growth rings of trees. These rings can be observed on both the inner and outer sides of the shell, with the ligaments connecting the shells being the optimal location for calculating the growth wheel. However, there may be some error in estimating the age of clams due to environmental factors.
Clams are also known to have a fetish for cleanliness, as they open their shells and let water flow through them when the water quality is relatively clean. Their survival depends on the water quality of their living environment.
In terms of nutrition, clams are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them an ideal food with low-calorie energy and high nutritional value. They also have medicinal value and are suitable for consumption by the general population, especially for those with certain health conditions.
Clams have various uses in cooking and can be steamed, boiled, stir-fried, or grilled. They are versatile ingredients with a unique flavor that can enhance the taste of a variety of dishes.
Clams are a highly nutritious and versatile seafood that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes and have numerous health benefits.
