Geoduck clams are long-lived bivalves farmed in intertidal and subtidal Pacific areas, raising questions about their capacity for stress and the welfare of their production.
The welfare status of bivalves including geoduck clams remains scientifically uncertain. Their nervous systems are simpler than vertebrates or even decapod crustaceans. Nonetheless, they respond to noxious stimuli with valve closure, and the precautionary principle suggests minimising handling stress. Harvest by hydraulic jetting causes significant physical disruption. As aquaculture of long-lived bivalves expands, welfare frameworks should be revisited as scientific understanding develops.