Illustrated checklist of pea clams (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Sphaeriidae) from Nepal

Abstract

The pea clams (Sphaeriidae) of Nepal are represented by 11 taxa. The highest diversity is found in the mid-altitudinal range between 795 and 1570 masl. Pea clams are poorly represented in the high Himalaya and the Terai. Faunal associations are with the Palaearctic and Oriental regions and with Central Asia. Most pea clams are useful indicator species and, owing to their high abundance and long life span, they are useful in monitoring the water quality of streams. Key words: Pisidium, Musculium, pea clam, indicator species, Sphaeriidae, Nepal Himalayan Journal of Sciences 3(5) 2005 p. 57-65