Dr. Dan KillamAug 12, 2025
I once was asked by a kindergartner if clams sleep. I was stumped, and we actually have no idea! We know many bivalves have strong biological clocks, often showing circadian rhythms in activity. But as to whether they sleep? No one knows! #clamFacts
Show threadKevin RussellAug 12, 2025

@dantheclamman

Is there a consciousness that has different states? Do clams wake up, might be a better question. Maybe clams dream 24/7. Endlessly becoming butterflies. Or writing Taoist sutras.

Show threadDr. Dan KillamAug 12, 2025
@kevinrns yeah consciousness is a tricky subject. Depending on species and conditions, they definitely have intervals of heightened awareness. If they're sick and weakened, they are more likely to clam up. Some show awareness of their size and close up more readily if they're small. They investigate potential sources of food. These responses can be deadened by sedation or intoxication. Whether the flip side of this awareness is sleep, we don't know!
Show threadKevin Russell

@dantheclamman

Does action necessarily mean consciousness? I saw a film of two rows, one of termites, another of ants, facing each other, and behind each outward facing row of shoulder to shoulder ants and termites, are two massive streams of their respective hive mates roaring on their daily duty, kept apart to keep the peace.

Is a termite conscious of their soldier duties preventing war, or of choosing today's position between the streams? Is 'the hive' aware?

We snore, scratch, roll over

Aug 12, 2025 at 11:46pmWeb