The researchers found that the levels of Vitamin B12 in the Naked Clams were higher than in most other bivalves -- and almost twice the amount found in blue mussels. And with the addition of an algae-based feed to the system, the Naked Clams can be fortified with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids -- nutrients essential for human health. Shipworms have traditionally been viewed as a pest because they bore through any wood immersed in seawater, including ships, piers and docks.

 

The researchers developed a fully-enclosed aquaculture system that can be completely controlled, eliminating the water quality and food safety concerns often associated with mussel and oyster farming. And the modular design means it can be used in urban settings, far from the sea. "Naked Clams taste like oysters, they're highly nutritious and they can be produced with a really low impact on the environment," said Dr David Willer, Henslow Research Fellow at the University of Cambridge's Department of Zoology and first author of the report. He added: "Naked Clam aquaculture has never been attempted before. We're growing them using wood that would otherwise go to landfill or be recycled, to produce food that's high in protein and essential nutrients like Vitamin B12."

 

Scientifically named Teredinids, these creatures have no shell, but are classed as bivalve shellfish and related to oysters and mussels. Because the Naked Clams don't put energy into growing shells, they grow much faster than mussels and oysters which can take two years to reach a harvestable size. The report is published today in the journal Sustainable Agriculture.