Life cycle of the giant clam. A good water exchange rate is important for bringing fresh nutrients to the clams but this must be balanced against providing adequate shelter for the clams during storms. Ideal sites are those that are close to reef islands or located on the back side of the barrier reef in sand or coral rubble areas. These sites provide some protection from wave action but also have a good water exchange. Depth is also an important factor to consider when placing a farm site.
Shallow sites are easier to work on but are more likely to be damaged during a storm.
A final, but extremely important, factor to consider in farm siting is security. Throughout many areas of the U.S. Affiliated Pacific Islands anything left unattended in the water is considered public property and can therefore be taken. Sites should be chosen that are close to the farmer's house or the house of people who are willing to watch over the farm. Clam seeds are the young clams that are obtained from a hatchery to stock the farm. Clams smaller than this do not survive well and can make the farm unprofitable.