Tridacna maxima (Maxima Clam) Care Guide
Tridacna maxima is the small giant clam, the widest-ranging Tridacna species, with a vivid mantle that depends on intense light.
Overview
Tridacna maxima, the small giant clam, has shells of large specimens typically not exceeding 20 cm in length. Its bright blue, green or brown mantle is coloured by crystalline pigment cells, which can also cluster to produce white. It is one of the most widely distributed giant clams and a popular display species in reef aquaria.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cardiidae
- Subfamily: Tridacninae
- Genus: Tridacna
- Scientific name: Tridacna maxima
Habitat
It is found in the oceans surrounding East Africa, India, China, Australia, Southeast Asia, the Red Sea and the islands of the Pacific, the widest range among giant clam species. It occurs on reef surfaces, sand or partly embedded in coral in well-lit areas, adhering to the substrate by its byssus, a tuft of tough filaments.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L
- Temperature: 24-26 C (75-79 F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness (KH): 8-11 dKH
- Calcium: 380-450 ppm
- Magnesium: 1280-1350 ppm
- Specific gravity: 1.024-1.026
- Lighting: intense reef lighting
- Lifespan: 20-60 years
Diet
The clam maintains a photosynthetic partnership with symbiotic zooxanthellae and obtains most of the nutrients it requires from this relationship, which is why it occupies brightly lit reef zones. Strong reef lighting and stable calcium, alkalinity and magnesium are needed in captivity.
Compatibility
It is peaceful and reef-safe among reef fish. Mantle-nipping species such as angelfish, triggers and pufferfish should be avoided.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern. The species is protected under CITES Appendix II, regulating international trade.