Description
Description
The smallest and one of the most colorful giant clams, known for its intense mantle colors (blue, green, gold, purple with iridescent patterns). It is a boring clam, meaning it naturally embeds itself into rock by carving a hole. Highly prized but more demanding than many other clams.
Lighting
Strong to very strong lighting (essential)
(Requires intense reef lighting such as high-output LEDs or metal halides)
Placement (Aquarium Zone)
Upper reef / rockwork
Should be placed firmly on rock, not sand, so it can attach and feel secure
Temperature
24–27°C (75–81°F)
Salinity
1.024–1.026 SG
pH
8.1–8.4
Alkalinity
8–10 dKH
(Stable levels are critical)
Diet
Primarily photosynthetic
Relies on zooxanthellae (light-driven nutrition)
Can benefit from:
Phytoplankton (especially when young)
Absorbs dissolved nutrients from water
Adult Size (up to)
~12–15 cm (5–6 inches)
Care Level
Intermediate to advanced
(High light demand and sensitivity to parameter swings)
Compatibility
Reef-safe
Can be kept with most peaceful reef fish
Avoid:
Clam-nipping fish (e.g., some angelfish, butterflyfish)
Certain wrasses and triggers
Keep away from aggressive corals with strong stings
