[4] This clam is native to the coasts of the Indian, Philippines and Pacific Oceans from Pakistan and India north to China, Japan, Korea and the Kuril Islands.
It is common along the Pacific coast of North America from British Columbia to California, where its original introduction was accidental.
It has spread naturally in Western Europe over the decades, its adaptability allowing it to thrive in many coastal habitat types.
It has been planted in Portugal, Spain, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Morocco, Israel, and French Polynesia for the purposes of aquaculture.
This clam may become sexually mature in its first year of life, reaching about 15 millimeters in width, especially in warmer areas such as Hawaii.
[3] This species is a nutritious and attractive prey item for many kinds of predatory animals, including the green crab, moon snails, starfish, fish, ducks, shorebirds, sea otters, and raccoons.
[3] This clam has negatively impacted native ecosystems in some regions, mainly due to its ability to grow in high densities.