Maxima Clam

It is a moderately hardy species which usually does well in a well established reef tank, provided reasonably strong lighting, clear water conditions and stable salinity is provided. Growth will be better under stronger lighting and thse clams should only be housed in tanks with with Metal Halide or modern high output PC or VHO lighting.

Common Name(s): Maxima Clam, Great Clam or Rugosa Clam
Scientific/Other Name(s) : Tridacna maxima
Maximum Size: 12"
Reef Safe: Yes
Care Level :Medium
Feeding Requirements: Primarily photosynthetic. They may benefit from feeding with micro foods designed for filter
feeders, especially when small. Offer phytoplankton and other micro-foods
Temperament / Behavior: Peaceful
Other Comments:

T. maxima is found in a variety of colours and patterns and in the wild can grow up to 20".

It is a moderately hardy species which usually does well in a well established reef tank, provided reasonably strong lighting, clear water conditions and stable salinity is provided. Growth will be better under stronger lighting and thse clams should only be housed in tanks with with Metal Halide or modern high output PC or VHO lighting. Position on the substrate in the bottom of the tank in a low to moderate water flow area if intense lighting is provided. Otherwise position higher up in the tank in a secure location where it is not in danger of falling

Tridacna Maxima may be nipped by angelfish and butterfly fish.
T. maxima has ways of attaching itself to the coral reef. It can burrow into the substrate, but not as deeply as T. crocea. It
may also attach by its byssal filaments, which it can do in a day, so its first placement in the aquarium should be
considered permanent.

It requires calcium levels of 400-500 mg/L, and an alkalinity of 7 to 12 degrees. Proper levels of strontium and iodine are also needed. As with all other invertibrates they cannot tolerate copper.