Monsters of the Deep
Although giant clams are shown as monsters in books and movies, in reality they are hardly dangerous. True to their name, they are the largest of their kind, with shells up to four feet long. But giant clams live peaceful lives in coral reefs and warm shallow waters. They share a symbiotic relationship with algae colonies, offering protection in exchange for the occasional algae snack. Giant clams protect themselves by closing their shells when sensing any sudden change. This action though is never fast enough to hurt a person. In fact, the way most people are hurt by giant clams is by trying to pick them up. They can weigh up to a monstrous five hundred pounds.
