Maxima Clam (Tridacna maxima) Care Guide
A photosynthetic bivalve with a stunning iridescent mantle in blues, greens, golds, and purples. Harbors symbiotic zooxanthellae like corals.
Overview
Tridacna maxima is a species in the family Cardiidae. A photosynthetic bivalve with a stunning iridescent mantle in blues, greens, golds, and purples. Harbors symbiotic zooxanthellae like corals. Requires intense lighting and stable calcium/alkalinity levels. Smaller specimens more suitable for aquariums. One of the most beautiful reef inhabitants.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cardiidae
- Genus: Tridacna
- Scientific name: Tridacna maxima
- Other names: Giant Clam
- Origin: Indo-Pacific
Habitat
Tridacna maxima is a giant clam of Indo-Pacific reef flats, anchoring among rock in bright, shallow water. Its colourful mantle houses symbiotic algae that supply most of its energy through photosynthesis; it also filters plankton and needs strong light and stable calcium and alkalinity.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 100 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Salinity: SG 1.024-1.026
- KH: 8-12 dKH
- Water flow: moderate
- Adult size: 5-30 cm
- Lifespan: 10-30 years
- Difficulty: advanced
Diet
Classified as herbivore. Recommended feeding frequency: photosynthetic. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.
Compatibility
- Temperament: peaceful
- Position in tank: bottom
- Compatible tank mates: Reef Fish, Corals
- Avoid with: Angelfish, Butterflyfish, Triggerfish, Pufferfish
Reef compatibility
Generally classified as reef-safe: does not feed on stony or soft corals, tridacnid clams or ornamental shrimps under normal conditions.