[3] Pinctada radiata occurs throughout the Indo-Pacific and Mediterranean Sea at all depths, though it is generally found between 5 and 25 metres (16 and 82 ft).

[2] P. radiata is common throughout its range, possibly because of its adaptation to subtropical environments and ability to survive in polluted water.

[3] It was originally distributed only in the Indo-Pacific, but has been introduced into the Mediterranean unintentionally through the Suez Canal and intentionally for aquaculture.

[1][5] Pinctada radiata is harvested for pearls, especially in Qatari waters, where it may constitute up to 95% of the oyster catch.

[6] P. radiata has also been investigated for possible use as a bioindicator of heavy metals in Persian Gulf waters.