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 threadDianeAug 12, 2025

@dantheclamman

Did you see the paper on bothering jellyfish to show they can sleep?

https://authors.library.caltech.edu/records/psp7j-nmv35

Do clams show a slower reaction time and lower activity at different times of day/

The Jellyfish Cassiopea Exhibits a Sleep-like State

Show threadDr. Dan KillamAug 12, 2025
@alienghic yes, many species do have times of day or night they show a partially closed posture, as if they're resting! Their valves clap less and generally show less valve movement
Show threadDiane

@dantheclamman

Is there a non-toxic chemical they don't like the taste of?

I could imagine an experiment where you flow something they'll close up for and tracking how long it takes for the clam to notice the compound and close.

If the distribution of time to respond looks bimodal, that could be a sign of sleeping.

Aug 12, 2025 at 11:52pmWeb