Freshwater gold clam (Corbicula fluminea)

MPI has classified Freshwater Gold Clam as an invasive species in NZ Waterways.

This freshwater mollusc (also known as Asian gold clam) was discovered along a stretch of the Waikato River in May 2023. Biosecurity New Zealand is working with iwi and other partners to prevent the spread of the clam.

Remember to CHECK, CLEAN, DRY between waterways.

Risk to NZ from the freshwater gold clam

The freshwater gold clam is native to eastern Asia and is widely established in North and South America and Europe.

These clams reproduce rapidly and form large populations that can clog water-based infrastructure such as electricity generation plants, irrigation systems, and water treatment plants. They are filter feeders that can potentially compete with native species for food. We do not yet know how this species will respond in New Zealand conditions.

Overseas, this clam has proved difficult to control and eradication has never been achieved.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SEE A FRESHWATER GOLD CLAM

Source and more information available here: MPI