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How to Tell if a Clam Is a Boy or Girl?

On the outside, a clam may seem like a very simple creature. They have no eyes, noses or ears, and if you see one buried in the sand on a beach, you might think it just another seashell. Clams are actually rather complex little creatures, especially when it comes to their reproductive system. Some clams use an external reproductive system, relying on clams of another gender for egg fertilization, while others have an internal reproductive system. These creatures fertilize their own eggs and are called hermaphrodites. It is difficult to tell which gender a clam is without examining its reproductive tissues microscopically.

Things You'll Need

Pliers
Scalpel
Compound microscope

Instructions

- 1
  Open the halves of the clam's shell if it is not already open for you. Use a pair of pliers to carefully pull apart the halves. Pull just enough so that a thin blade can be inserted between the halves.
- 2
  Insert a sharp scalpel between the halves, taking care not to damage any internal organs. Slide the scalpel toward the hinge of the shell. Feel around for a very hard, firm substance. This is the group of muscles that must be cut. Use the scalpel to sever the muscles.
- 3
  Pull apart the halves of the clam. You will see a thin tissue film. Use the blunt end of the scalpel to remove the film. Position the clam so the shell's hinge is on your left. Break the halves apart at the hinge and place the right half in front of you.
- 4
  Use the scalpel to cut open the body wall, revealing the organs within. Locate the gonad. This large organ usually lies in the center of the right half of the clam, directly beneath the intestine.
- 5
  Remove a thin slice of the gonad with the scalpel and place it on a wet mount. Examine the wet mount under a compound microscope. If you see spherical objects, these are eggs, and the clam is a female. If you see small, flagellating sperm, then you know the clam is a male.

Animals & Science