The 6-Foot Sea Creature That Lives Over 100 Years (And Yes, You Can Eat It)

Did you know there’s a sea creature that can grow longer than a person and live for more than a century? Meet the Pacific geoduck (Panopea generosa), also known as the elephant clam—a bizarre, massive mollusk native to the coastal waters of western North America.

What makes the geoduck so unforgettable? For starters, it can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length, thanks to its long, fleshy “neck,” technically called a siphon. This neck isn’t just for show—it has two openings: one for breathing and feeding, and another for expelling water. Though the shell itself is modest in size, the siphon often extends well beyond it, giving the geoduck its rather unusual appearance.

Despite its odd look, this deep-burrowing clam is a delicacy in parts of Asia and North America. It’s prized for its sweet, slightly crunchy meat, often served raw in sashimi or cooked in seafood dishes.

But beyond its culinary fame, the geoduck is also fascinating for its extreme longevity. These creatures can survive for 100 to even 160 years, making them one of the longest-living animals in the ocean.

Whether you find it weird, wonderful, or just plain wild, the Pacific geoduck is proof that nature never runs out of surprises. Curious what it looks like in action? 👀

👉 Full video and details in the comments!