Maxima Clam – Tridacna maxima
Tridacna maxima, commonly known as the Maxima Clam, is one of the most iconic and visually striking giant clams available in the marine aquarium trade. Renowned for its intensely colored mantle patterns—often displaying electric blues, golds, greens, and intricate geometric striping—this species is prized for both its beauty and its compact size compared to other giant clams. When fully expanded under strong reef lighting, the mantle displays vivid fluorescence and intricate patterning that makes each specimen unique.
Native to Indo-Pacific reef flats and upper reef slopes, Maxima clams typically anchor themselves into rock crevices using strong byssal threads. Their strong reliance on symbiotic zooxanthellae means they thrive under intense lighting and stable reef conditions.
Lighting: High (250–400+ PAR); requires strong reef lighting to support photosynthesis and mantle coloration
Flow: Moderate; gentle, indirect flow prevents detritus buildup without causing mantle retraction
Placement: Rockwork in stable crevices where the clam can anchor securely using byssal threads
Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.0265 SG (35 PPT)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH (stable levels are critical for shell growth)
Calcium: 420–460 ppm
Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
Nutrients: Low to moderate; extremely nutrient-poor systems may require supplemental feeding for very small specimens
Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic; smaller clams (<5 cm) may benefit from occasional phytoplankton feeding
Aggression: Peaceful; non-aggressive but vulnerable to nipping from certain fish and invertebrates
Growth Rate: Moderate; shell growth accelerates under strong lighting and stable calcium/alkalinity levels
Care Level: Intermediate to Advanced – requires stable parameters, strong lighting, and protection from predators
Compatibility: Reef-safe; compatible with most reef inhabitants but should be protected from angelfish, butterflyfish, and some wrasses that may nip at the mantle
