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Maxima Clam

(Tridacna maxima)

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 Quick Care Facts

• Care Level: Moderate   • Temperament: Peaceful   • Maximum Size: 12"
• Diet: Photosynthesis   • Aquarium Level: Substrate   • Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons
 • Reef Compatible: Yes   • Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025
• Supplements: Calcium, Iodine, Strontium, Trace elements   • Coloration: Blue, Purple, Gold, Green, Black, Yellow
• Origin: Indo-Pacific • Family: Tridacnidae   • Species: Tridacna Clams

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Native Habitat and Species Information

Maxima Clam native habitat, distribution, behavior & aquarium compatibility.

Maxima Clams come in a wide variety of colors and patterns and can provide a very vibrant punch of color to any reef aquarium. The Maxima Clam is also commonly referred to within the aquarium trade as the Great Clam or Rugosa Clam. In general, Maxima Clams have larger areas of solid color than the other Tridacna clams, with the two halves of the shell being elongated with a lack of symmetry.

Maxima Clams will require the best water quality with intense lighting and a medium water flow. In the wild Maxima Clams are found in shallow water where intense sunlight is plentiful; therefore, in the aquarium they should be placed where they can receive direct intense lighting.

Aquarium Care

How to successfully keep Maxima Clam in the home aquarium.

Like other members of its genus, such as T. crocea and T. maxima, Maxima clams have ways of attaching themselves to the coral reef. The may also burrow partially into the substrate, but not as deeply as T. crocea. It may also attach itself by its byssal filaments, which it can do in a day or two, so its first placement in the aquarium should be considered a permanent home.

The Maxima Clam is probably the most widely recognized species of the giant clams, with its beautiful mantle and rich variety of vivid colorations. Its shell may reach a width of up to 12 inches. Maxima Clams are also known to live together in great congregations in the wild in shallow areas of the reef where the sunlight is very strong.

It is recommended that metal halide lighting be use in the reef aquarium to provide this species with enough lighting intensity to thrive. The Maxima Clam should also be place where it will receive a steady moderate water flow as well.

Feeding & Nutrition

How to feed and provide proper nutrition for Maxima Clam.

In the home aquarium, the Maxima Clam needs the correct lighting and water parameters to both live and to thrive. Bright lighting, medium water flow and excellent water quality are all necessary for the Maxima Clam to survive. It also requires calcium levels of at least 280 mg/L, preferably 400-480 mg/L, as well as adequate strontium,iodine and other trace elements.

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