The Asian Clam is native to southern and eastern China and Africa.  They are found in sandy and muddy bottomed streams, rivers, lakes, ponds, and even man-made canals.  It can also withstand degraded and polluted waters.  It was brought to North America from China in 1938.  It was first noticed in California and has spread prolifically.  It continues to expand its range into uninfested waters, especially in the Midwest and Northeast.  Nebraska is home to a large number of rare Mollusk species that may be crowded out by advancing Asian Clams.  The Asian Clam is currently established in Nebraska’s waterways but its impacts are unknown.  Control methods are ineffective once the clam has been introduced.