Bohol’s ‘antingaw’ vies for International Mollusc of the Year 2026

TAGBILARAN CITY — A rare mollusc species discovered in Bohol is representing the Philippines in the International Mollusc of the Year 2026, drawing attention from scientists and conservationists worldwide.

The species, Lithoredo abatanica, locally known as “antingaw,” is found exclusively in the Abatan River in Maribojoc town and is recognized as the first known shipworm that lives within and consumes rock.

According to the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute, the species differs significantly from other shipworms, which typically bore through wood. Instead, L. abatanica burrows through limestone using a uniquely adapted shell.

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“Unlike the rest of the shipworm family, L. abatanica bores and burrows its way through limestone rather than wood,” the institute said. “Its shell has evolved to cut through rock, with denticles that are large and blunt compared to the sharp structures found in other species.”

Scientists said the organism’s ability to derive nutrients from rock remains a mystery. Researchers believe it may host symbiotic microorganisms in its gills that help process its unusual inorganic diet.

Further studies are being conducted under the “Teredinids and Associated Microbes: A Multi-level Investigation of Lifestyles and Outstanding Compounds as Sources of Novel Therapeutics” (TAMMILOC) Project, supported by the National Research Council of the Philippines.

Researchers noted that understanding the species’ digestive processes could lead to breakthroughs in biotechnology and the development of novel therapeutic compounds.

Despite its scientific importance, L. abatanica is also known locally as a delicacy, similar to other shipworms found in different parts of the country.

The Philippine entry is competing against candidates from Italy, Australia, the United States, and Seychelles in the annual competition organized by Senckenberg Ocean Species Alliance and Unitas Malacologica.

Public voting for the International Mollusc of the Year 2026 opened this week and will run until April 26, with supporters encouraged to vote online.

The nomination of L. abatanica highlights both Bohol’s unique biodiversity and the growing global interest in lesser-known marine species with potential scientific value. INQ /mr