Restoring Life Beneath the Waves
Concepcion, Iloilo’s Marine Eco-Tourism Sanctuary
The Concepcion Beneath the Sea Project
Concepcion is a picturesque fishing village located in the province of Iloilo, nestled on the beautiful island of Panay in the Philippines. This charming village is graced with numerous small islands surrounded by pristine, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking natural beauty. Regrettably, this untouched splendor remains an undiscovered gem for eco-tourism. Concepcion has traditionally relied solely on fishing as its primary livelihood. However, this traditional way of life is finite, and the village’s reliance on fishing may soon become unsustainable.
Our Mission
The initiative aims to repopulate the local waters of Concepcion with these magnificent but endangered species, offering marine enthusiast, divers, local and international tourists the unique opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive amongst them in designated protect divesites throughout Concepcion.
Through this ecotourism project, Concepcion invites visitors to experience the breathtaking beauty of its marine biodiversity and to witness firsthand the efforts being made to protect these valuable ecosystems for future generations.
Endangered Giant Clams of the Philippines
At the heart of this program is the Giant Clam Project called the Adopt a Giant Clam Project.
Concepcion Beneath the Sea is undertaking a significant project to reveal the stunning underwater environment of Concepcion and establish it as a vibrant eco-tourism spot. This initiative involves identifying specific dive locations around the nearby islands, which will then serve as sites for the reintroduction of endangered and threatened giant clams.
These reintroduced giant clams will act as captivating underwater attractions, drawing marine enthusiasts, divers, and tourists from both the local area and internationally. The project aims to offer a unique opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive among these magnificent creatures within designated protected dive sites throughout Concepcion.
The project is dedicated to the restoration of environmentally extinct giant clams to their native waters. This crucial step in conservation serves to re-establish these magnificent species in their natural environment within Concepcion.
By successfully reintroducing the giant clams, the initiative will create a distinct and unparalleled underwater experience. This will allow eco-tourists and diving enthusiasts to witness and appreciate these majestic creatures in their natural habitat in Concepcion.
True Giant Clams - Tridancna Giga
The Tridacna gigas, known as the giant clam or “taklobo” in the Philippines, is the largest living bivalve mollusk, growing over 4 feet in diameter and weighing over 400 lbs. Sadly, the Philippine Department of Agriculture classifies the Tridacna gigas as an endangered species.
These remarkable creatures face threats in their natural habitats, making conservation efforts crucial. The Concepcion Beneath the Sea project aims to address this by reintroducing these clams to protected dive sites, fostering eco-tourism and raising awareness about their plight.
Giant clams have a long life span of up to 100 years, taking many years to reach their impressive full size. Their shells provide a habitat for various algae, which are responsible for the vibrant colors seen in the clams’ mantles.
These clams are also vital to the marine ecosystem. They filter excess nutrients and pollutants from the water and sustain themselves by filter-feeding on plankton, contributing to the overall health and clarity of the water.
Due to poaching and as a food source, the Tridacna Giga’s no longer exists in Panay Island. Our goal is to replenish the island once again with these magnificent creatures.
Environmental and Economic Impact of the
Adopt a Clam Project
The Concepcion Beneath the Sea initiative generates local jobs by establishing marine eco-tourism focused on giant clam restoration. This creates opportunities for trained dive guides and instructors, while also stimulating growth in accommodations, food services, and local crafts, boosting employment for the community.
The Concepcion Beneath the Sea project boosts the town’s economy by attracting eco-tourists to witness the restored giant clam populations, generating revenue for local businesses like accommodations, food services, and transportation. Additionally, it creates job opportunities for residents in diving, guiding, and marine resource management, further contributing to the economic well-being of the community.
The Concepcion Beneath the Sea project enhances tourism by offering a unique underwater experience centered around the giant clam restoration, providing an alternative to traditional island hopping. This initiative draws divers and eco-tourists interested in witnessing the Tridacna gigas in their natural habitat, creating a specialized attraction that diversifies the town’s tourism offerings and attracts a new segment of visitors.
The Concepcion Beneath the Sea project diversifies Concepcion’s economy beyond fishing by establishing marine eco-tourism centered on giant clam restoration. This initiative fosters opportunities in diving and guiding services, hospitality (accommodations, food), transportation, and local crafts, creating a more robust and varied economic base for the community.
By prioritizing and showcasing the “Concepcion Beneath the Sea” project, the town can brand itself as a nature conservancy focused destination, emphasizing its commitment to preserving marine life and promoting eco-tourism. This branding can be amplified through educational programs, community engagement in conservation efforts, and marketing materials highlighting the unique underwater experiences offered by the giant clam restoration initiative. This will draw environmentally conscious tourists and establish Concepcion as a leader in sustainable tourism.
The “Concepcion Beneath the Sea” project directly creates a marketable tourist destination for the nature conservancy industry by focusing on the restoration of endangered giant clams and promoting responsible diving practices. This provides a unique and attractive experience for eco-conscious travelers interested in supporting marine conservation efforts and witnessing the beauty of restored underwater ecosystems. By highlighting the town’s commitment to protecting its marine environment and offering educational opportunities, Concepcion can attract tourists specifically seeking destinations that prioritize sustainability and conservation.
Make a Splash for Ocean Conservation!
Support the majestic giant clams and the future of Concepcion, Iloilo, by joining our conservation efforts. Your contribution is vital to protecting these incredible creatures and their marine habitat.
Choose Your Adoption Level:
Major Sponsor
- Adopt 5 clams
- Free guided tour of the giant clam sanctuary
- Name listed on our website
- Name displayed on a billboard in the heart of Concepcion
Guardian of Five
- Adopt 5 clams
- Free guided tour of the giant clam sanctuary
- Name listed on our website
Triple Threat Protector
- Adopt 3 clams
- Name listed on our website
Clam Champion
- Adopt 1 clam
- Name listed on our website
Make a Difference: Support Concepcion Beneath the Sea!
Support ocean conservation and Concepcion by joining “Concepcion Beneath the Sea”! Your contribution helps restore endangered giant clams, creating a sustainable eco-tourism destination and providing livelihoods for the local community.
Every action counts, from adopting a clam to shopping our store or spreading awareness. Together, we can ensure a vibrant future for Concepcion’s marine life and its people. Dive into conservation and be part of this special mission!
Wear Your Support: Shop the "Beneath the Sea" Collection
Every purchase you make helps support the ‘Concepcion Beneath the Sea’ project and the restoration of endangered giant clams. Explore our unique collection of merchandise, accessories, and locally crafted products, and wear your commitment to marine conservation.
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$26.47 – $34.77Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
$29.42 – $37.97Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
$29.42 – $37.97Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page -
$29.55 – $43.67Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Concepcion Collection
With every purchase you make, you directly contribute to the vital “Concepcion Beneath the Sea” project. Your support fuels the restoration of endangered giant clams and the preservation of their delicate marine ecosystem. Join us in making a tangible impact on our oceans!
Explore our carefully curated collection of merchandise, accessories, and locally crafted products, each representing a commitment to marine conservation. Wear your dedication proudly, knowing that your choice is helping to protect these magnificent creatures and the vibrant community of Concepcion.
Jewels of the Reef: A Giant Clam Photo Gallery
Discover the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of giant clams, nature’s own underwater masterpieces. These incredible creatures are not just beautiful; they are essential to the health of our marine ecosystems, filtering water and providing habitat for other species.
Meet the Stars: Concepcion's Most Famous Giant Clams
Get to know the personalities of our giant clam sanctuary! These remarkable individuals are not just conservation success stories; they’re local celebrities, each playing a vital role in the restoration of Concepcion’s marine ecosystem.
Hippopus Porcellanus
Hippopus porcellanus is a species of giant clam that belongs to the family Tridacnidae. This species is commonly known as the “strawberry clam” or “electric flame scallop” due to its striking appearance
Tridacna Crocea
Tridacna crocea, commonly known as the “crocea clam” or “boring clam,” is a species of giant clam belonging to the family Tridacnidae.
Tridacna Squamosa
Tridacna squamosa, commonly known as the “giant clam” or “fluted giant clam,” is a species of giant clam belonging to the family Tridacnidae.
Get Involved!
We’re passionate about ocean conservation and eager to share our progress with you. Use the form below to send us your inquiries, suggestions, or feedback, and we’ll be happy to assist.
