<![CDATA[Marine bivalves are increasingly recognized as reservoirs of natural metabolites that may support biotechnological development and functional food innovation. Nevertheless, information on the taxonomic status and biological properties of bamboo clams from eastern Indonesia is still scarce. This research examined the genetic affiliation and preliminary bioactive characteristics of Solen sarawakensis obtained from the coastal area of Merauke, Indonesia. Specimens were collected from the intertidal habitat, followed by molecular characterization based on the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I marker. The crude extract was subsequently evaluated for antibacterial properties using an agar disk assay against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Free-radical scavenging capacity was determined using DPPH analysis, while major secondary-metabolite groups were assessed through qualitative phytochemical tests. Sequence comparison and phylogenetic reconstruction placed the Merauke specimens within the S. sarawakensis lineage. The extract inhibited the growth of both tested bacterial species, suggesting activity across Gram-positive and Gram-negative targets. However, its radical-scavenging performance was relatively low, producing an IC₅₀ of 353.52 ppm. Alkaloids, steroids, and saponins were detected in the extract, whereas flavonoids and tannins were absent. These findings document the genetic characterization and initial bioactivity profile of S. sarawakensis from Merauke. Despite modest antioxidant performance, its antibacterial response and detected metabolite classes indicate that this bivalve may warrant further investigation as a natural source of antimicrobial compounds. Purification of active fractions, compound elucidation, and mechanistic evaluation should be pursued in subsequent work.]]>
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