Proximate Analysis Of Clam (bivalvia Species)

Nigeria is among the protein and minerals deficient nations in the world. A sufficient amount of dietary protein, required for survival, growth and development, reproduction and maintenance of good health, is in short supply in the country. To salvage this situation, shellfish can serve as an alternative source of proteins and minerals for man. Shellfishes are aquatic invertebrates with shells. They can be divided into two groups namely; molluscs and crustaceans. Examples of molluscs are cephalopods (squid, octopus, and cuttlefish); gastropods (snails and slugs) and bivalves (clams, oysters, mussels, scallops). Molluscs are delicious and rich in protein. Their nutritive value can be assessed by estimating the levels of proteins, carbohydrates and fats in their body tissues. Bivalve molluscs like mussels, clams and oysters constitute highly nutritive seafood with an increasing demand and source of income in international markets (Fuentes et al., 2009; Karnjanapratum et al., 2013; Orban et al., 2002, 2006; Pogoda et al., 2013). Shellfish meat, particularly clam meat have been recommended in several dietary regimes for their high protein content, low calorific values, low fat/cholesterol profile and lower proportions of saturated fat, the presence of good lipids, significant amounts of omega-3-fatty acids, dietary essential amino acids, vitamin B12 and some important minerals such as iron, zinc and copper has been reported (Krzynowek et al., 1989 and Dong, 2001). 

Bivalvia speciesis a fresh water clam inhabiting the lower reaches of some large West African rivers (Udoidiong and Akpan, 1991). Despite its popularity as a cheap source of animal protein in Nigeria, studies on proximate composition, amino acid and trace metal concentration are limited. There is paucity of the knowledge especially of the nutritional values of E. radiata, so consumption of these nutrient rich molluscs is restricted to communities to communities situated along coastal States. Hence, there is need to determine nutrient compositions of clams with the view of creating awareness on the nutritional benefits of consuming them. Therefore the objective of this study was to evaluate the proximate composition, amino acid and the trace metals of clams from different sources.