Genetic Stock Improvement of Hard Clams Projects

Applied research has been directed to developing a hardier clam strain for Florida’s coastal environment. During summer months, hard clams encounter high water temperatures and reduced oxygen and phytoplankton levels. At the same time, clam metabolism is higher. Together these stresses may contribute to summer mortalities. Basic breeding techniques are being examined to improve production and create a “Florida-friendly” clam. Project summaries are provided as well as project results and final reports. Some project reports are being updated and will be posted soon.

• Genetic Variation in Wild and Cultured Florida Hard Clam Stocks
• Enhancing Stress Resistance of Florida Cultured Hard Clams by Triploidy
• Evaluation of Hybridization with Hard Clams and Southern Quahogs
• Assessment of F1 Hybrids Back Crossed with Hard Clams to Improve Summer Production
• Thermal Selection of Broodstock to Improve Florida Hard Clam Production
• Increasing Hard Clam Production by using Biomarkers of Thermal Tolerance
• Genetic Diversity in Wild and Aquacultured Populations of Florida Hard Clams
• Sea Grant Hard Clam Selective Breeding Collaborative