What we do?
Life of the South Dinaric clam
The South Dinaric clam Congeria kusceri is one of three today's alive species of cave clam.It is tertiary relic.
It inhabits submerged undeground systems spending in it its whole life, developing special adjustment.
The cave clams live either indiviudally or in clusters,firmly attached to stone walls of underground chambers and passages.They feed on small organic particles by filtering water.
The shell growth size of individuals shows the length up to 20 mm.
According to the research referring its age and growth, Congeria Kusceri is the species with long life span, but also with low growth,and the oldest examined individual from the pit Jama in Predolac was 53 years old. The males and females show no difference in terms of growth achieving the same age.
Water temperature has been identified as the main factor controlling life circle of Congeria Kusceri,so students did the research about it.They measured the temperature and clarity of subterrain water during the seasons.They presented their achievements through the exhibition at school hall.
Congeria Kusceri species is categorized as CR (Critically endangered) by IUCN criteria ,and is also on the European network list for nature conservation(Natura 2000,second and fourth guidelines of habitats)which implies the importance of its protection at all levels.
Why we do it?
Pure underground waters are one of the main necessities for the life and survival of cave fauna and Congeria Kusceri in general sense,but also for humans on the surface.
