The clam, Xishi tongue Coelomactra antiquata (Spengler), a promising new candidate for aquaculture in China

Methods and results of recent hatchery studies in rearing the clam, Xishi tongue, Coelomactra antiquata (Spengler) are documented in this paper. About 17 million juveniles were produced using hatchery methods, the largest production ever reported. A summary of its biological and ecological characteristics and techniques for hatchery rearing and growout are reported. Because of good growth rate, ease of artificial breeding and growout, this famous Chinese delicacy is a promising new candidate for aquaculture. This indigenous Chinese species has excellent potential for aquaculture; and due to its decline in natural abundance, hatchery rearing and growout may help the conservation of this species in the wild.