Tridacna squamosa (Squamosa Clam) Care Guide
Tridacna squamosa is a giant clam recognised by its prominent shell scutes, hardy among Tridacna and relying on zooxanthellae.
Overview
Tridacna squamosa, the fluted or scaly giant clam, grows to about 40 cm across. It is distinguished by prominent leaf-like ridged shell projections called scutes. The mantle tissue ranges from browns and purples to greens and yellows in linear or spotted patterns. It was described by Lamarck in 1819.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cardiidae
- Subfamily: Tridacninae
- Genus: Tridacna
- Scientific name: Tridacna squamosa
- Authority: Lamarck, 1819
Habitat
Its native range extends from South Africa to the Red Sea and to the Marshall Islands. It inhabits shallow coral reef ecosystems across the South Pacific and Indian Oceans.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 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: moderate reef lighting
- Lifespan: 30-80 years
Diet
The mantle hosts symbiotic dinoflagellate algae (zooxanthellae) that supply major nutritional support; the clam exposes its mantle during daylight to enable photosynthesis. It is relatively hardy among giant clams, requires moderate lighting, depends less heavily on photosynthesis than related species, and supplements its diet by consuming phytoplankton.
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 listed on CITES Appendix II, which restricts international trade in the clam and its derivatives.