ALERT: Giant Clam ESA Listing Proposals

National Marine Fisheries Service has proposed listing all Giant Clams (Tridacna spp. and Hippopus spp.) under the Endangered Species Act. These listings would prohibit import, export, and interstate commerce in 6 species. While import and interstate commerce may be allowed in 4 species, state statutes or regulations may prohibit sale and possession of all species in certain states, despite conflict with Federal law. The Endangered Species Act does not distinguish between specimens from aquacultured or wild sources. The prohibitions would affect all giant clams regardless of origin. The proposal can be found here. An article breaking down the proposal in further detail can be found here.