Why are Manila clams called in such way?

Question

I am from the Philippines and I know where Manila is but I am curious as to why they are named Manila clams.

Answer 1

My understanding is that these tasty bivalves were named as such by a one-armed Catalan seafarer named Antonio Fernandez y Manilao, who in 1567 together with two local guides discovered the clams thriving in great quantities in the warm waters of the western coast along Northern Luzon. The letter "o" at the end of the original name was later dropped because the natives had an easier time pronouncing Manila clam (as opposed to Manilao clam).

Manila clam became an important commodity included in the galleon trade with Mexico and eventually found its way to the European market where it gained fame and world-renowned status, so much so that a city near the Pasig River was named after it in the late 1500s.

Answer 2

Manila Clams

Answer 3

Like this question.

My wife is from the Phills and she does not know either. I have an extensive culinary background and I do not know. I would like to know this also.

1. Manila Clams sometimes called Japanese Clams (Tapas semi decussatus or Vererupis japonica)

These delicious clams are not native to the American Pacific coast but have rapidly become one of the most important Pacific species. Although Manila clams can grow quite large, the tastiest are about 1inch wide and are sold by the pound. Manila clams can be eaten raw and are especially good when steamed.

2. Quahog or Hard-Shell Clams: Also known as lord, littleneck, baby or Manilla clam, depending on size. These tough-shelled American clams vary in color, from brown and white to yellow or sand colored. Some have red markings They also vary in size from 3-13 cm (11/4 - 5 in). It is rarely found in the Mediterranean but is abundant in the Atlantic and English Channel coasts, living in the sand on the seashores. Some are known in France as rigadelle or coquerayee: the small clams can be eaten raw, or cookd; larger shellfish are cooked, with the largest being used in chowders.
No info given of the origin of the names.

Answer 4

Manilla Clams