What's Happening?
A severe outbreak of contagious cancer has been detected in soft-shell clams in Washington's Puget Sound. According to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the disease, known as bivalve transmissible neoplasia, was
initially found in 45% of clams tested in Triangle Cove in April 2022. This prevalence increased to about 75% by 2024, marking one of the most significant outbreaks of this type of cancer in the region. The affected clams are not native to the West Coast and were likely introduced from Atlantic populations in the 1870s. The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife has stated that the risk of the disease spreading to Oregon is currently low, as previous tests have returned negative results. Both Washington and Oregon require shellfish to be tested before relocation to other states.
Why It's Important?
The outbreak of contagious cancer in soft-shell clams poses significant ecological and economic concerns. The disease's spread could impact local fisheries and the shellfish industry, which are vital to the regional economy. The potential for the disease to spread to other areas, including Oregon, could further threaten shellfish populations and the industries that rely on them. Additionally, the outbreak highlights the challenges of managing non-native species and the diseases they may carry. The situation underscores the importance of monitoring and regulating shellfish transport to prevent further spread of the disease.
What's Next?
Ongoing monitoring and testing of shellfish populations in Washington and Oregon will be crucial to managing the outbreak. The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife will continue to collaborate with Washington authorities to track the disease's progression. Further research may be needed to understand the disease's transmission and develop strategies to mitigate its impact. Stakeholders in the shellfish industry may need to adapt their practices to prevent the spread of the disease, potentially affecting supply chains and market dynamics.
