Tridacna maxima

Gerald Heslinga Photo

Maxima and Crocea clams are the most popular for the home aquarium.They have the richest
colors and the most vivid patterns and are stunningly beautiful, especially when viewed from
above. They are further characterized by the rows of fluting along the sides of their shell. 

Despite their delicate appearance, they are easily maintained. All Tridacna clams thrive with plenty of light. If you ever get a chance to see how they respond to sunlight, you will better understand just how much they love the light. For the brightest and fullest colors, give them 4-8 watts of fluorescent light per gallon and place them no deeper than 18" from
the light source. If you have metal halide lights, give them 2-4 watts per gallon and locate them at least 8" below the bulbs.

They prefer light to moderate water current and do not need to be fed. Given the right lighting, they will thrive on symbiotic zooxantellae algae. Maximas are fairly long-lived (over 10 years) and grow quite quickly (2" per year when young). They will reach over 14" in size in the wild. 

Regular additions of calcium and strontium are recommended to achieve good growth and color. Tridacna clams are capable of some movement. They will turn on their foot to receive the amount of current and light they want. When they are content with their location, they will attach themselves to the site by means of byssus threads which are secreted from the foot. Once the clam has attached itself, it is recommended that you do not separate the clam from its attached base.

A healthy and contented Maxima clam will fully extend its mantle beyond the shell rim.