Fluted Giant Clam – Tridacna squamosa
Tridacna squamosa, commonly known as the Fluted Giant Clam, is a distinctive giant clam species recognized for its heavily sculpted shell and dramatic mantle patterns. The shell features pronounced, leaf-like scutes (fluted scales) that give the species its name and create a striking architectural appearance even when the mantle is partially retracted. When fully expanded, the mantle displays intricate patterns in shades of brown, gold, green, or blue, often highlighted with fine speckling and iridescent accents under reef lighting.
Native to Indo-Pacific reef environments, Tridacna squamosa typically inhabits sandy lagoon bottoms and reef slopes where it rests directly on the substrate rather than anchoring deeply into rock. Its moderate lighting requirements and hardy nature make it one of the more forgiving giant clams for established reef aquariums.
Lighting: Moderate to high (150–300 PAR); strong lighting supports mantle coloration and photosynthesis
Flow: Moderate; indirect flow prevents detritus accumulation without irritating the mantle
Placement: Bottom of the aquarium on sand or flat rock where the clam can stabilize naturally
Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.0265 SG (35 PPT)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH (stable levels support healthy shell growth)
Calcium: 420–460 ppm
Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
Nutrients: Low to moderate; extremely nutrient-poor systems may require supplemental feeding for small specimens
Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic; juvenile clams may benefit from occasional phytoplankton supplementation
Aggression: Peaceful; non-aggressive and stationary
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast; capable of significant shell growth under stable conditions
Care Level: Intermediate – requires stable water chemistry and adequate lighting
Compatibility: Reef-safe; compatible with most reef inhabitants but vulnerable to mantle-nipping fish such as some angelfish, butterflyfish, and large wrasses
