Giant clams play an irreplaceable role as "architects" in coral reef ecosystems. Many species face extinction due to overharvesting, presenting a global challenge for their protection and restoration. Today, a research team from the South China Sea Institute of Oceanology (SCSIO), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), has overcome the hurdles of artificial giant clam breeding through independent innovation. They are sharing this technology and experience with ASEAN nations, jointly building an "ecological protection network" to revive these "ocean roses" in the South China Sea.