Overseas
An Italian scientific breakthrough could help aquaculture tackle one of the most urgent challenges linked to climate change: marine heatwaves.
Published in iScience, the study reveals that thermal priming can significantly increase the resilience of the Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum) — also known as the Japanese clam — one of the most farmed mollusk species in Italy and across Europe.
The principle is simple yet effective: exposing clams to a brief and controlled rise in temperature before a critical event. This “thermal training” strengthens the animal’s defenses, improving survival rates and the ability to cope with stress. Conducted by the University of Padua in collaboration with international partners, the research shows an increase in antioxidant capacity, stronger activation of heat-response genes, and a more favorable microbial composition.
There is also a long-term benefit: the so-called “environmental memory” remains active for up to 38 days after treatment — the longest period ever recorded for mollusks under experimental conditions. This opens the door to scheduling thermal preparation cycles ahead of seasonal temperature peaks.
The trade-off is a slight decrease in the condition index, indicating an energy cost for the organism. However, for aquaculture operations, the potential benefits — reduced losses, more stable supply, and maintained product quality — make this technique a strategic tool worth considering.
In a sector where environmental factors can threaten entire harvests, this Italian research offers a practical solution to protect the resilience of Manila clam farming and strengthen the industry’s climate adaptation strategies.
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