Residents urged to follow 'check, clean, dry' guidelines to halt the invasive gold clam's rapid spread

The council and Biosecurity NZ want residents to follow “check, clean, dry” guidelines in an effort to stop the spread of the invasive freshwater gold clam, which has been declared an unwanted organism under the Biosecurity Act 1993. Horowhenua Chronicle picture

Gisborne District Council and Biosecurity NZ are asking residents to follow “check, clean, dry” guidelines to stop the spread of the invasive freshwater gold clam.

GDC liveable communities director Michele Frey says the clam (Corbicula Fluminea), has been declared an unwanted organism under the Biosecurity Act 1993.

“The clams are unwanted as they can reproduce very rapidly, up to 400 juveniles a day, which can outcompete native species for both food and space.

“They’re of particular concern because they can clog up river infrastrucutre like treatment plants, electricity generators and irrigation systems.

“They’re spread accidently by humans so it’s extremely important that we follow the ‘check, clean, dry’ guidelines for our freshwater rivers and lakes.

“We’re also asking that residents report any sightings of the clam to Biosecurity New Zealand.”

“The clams are typically found in the slightly salty brackish water of estuaries and are often partially buried in sand or mud.

“The clams are a dirty white, yellow or tan colour with a distinctive ribbed texture on the shell.”

Biosecurity New Zealand has been working with iwi in the Waikato, Rotorua and Taupō regions, and with other partner groups, to help prevent wider spread of gold clams outside of the Waikato region.

If you see a freshwater gold clam, note the location, take a photo and contact Biosecurity New Zealand on 0800809966.