Clams' Iridescent Shells Could Inspire New Type of Solar Power

Follow Us

Brilliant shades of blue and aqua coat the iridescent lips of giant clams, but these shiny cells aren't just for show, new research finds. The iridescent sheen directs beams of sunlight into the interior of the clam, providing light for algae housed inside

In a symbiotic return, the algae use that sunlight to power photosynthesis, resulting in energy for the giant clam. "It ends up being a large part of the energy budget of the clams," said study researcher Alison Sweeney, an assistant professor of physics and astronomy at the University of Pennsylvania.

Essentially, the oversize mollusks, which can measure more than four feet long, have a natural solar energy system hiding in their shells. Read more...

More about Science, Solar Power, Us World, World, and Climate