Origin

Asian clams are native to temperate and tropical regions throughout much of Asia and Africa, as well as the eastern Mediterranean and parts of Australia. 

Habitat

This species occurs in both lake and riverine systems, where it prefers areas with sand and gravel substrates. Although they are a hardy and adaptable animal, they are rarely found on hard surfaces or in excessively silty areas. They are also extremely sensitive to low oxygen conditions, which may limit their spread and survival in deep areas of lakes or in rivers or streams that are not well oxygenated. Asian clams can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but require water temperatures of roughly 60 degrees F or higher for reproduction.

LifeCycle

Typical of many aquatic invasive species, Asian clams are prolific and are capable of rapid growth and spread. They are hermaphroditic and therefore capable of self-fertilization, so a single individual can release hundreds of microscopic larvae per day under favorable environmental conditions. Adults can also release sperm into the water for sexual reproduction. Larvae are free-floating for a period of time, during which they can travel considerable distances in water currents, and then settle to the substrate. 

Asian clams use a siphon-like feeding tube to filter feed on particles in the water column, and can also use its fleshy foot appendage to feed on detritus in the sediment.