Blue Clam

The Maxima Clam (Tridacna maxima, including cultured strains from ORA and Biota) is arguably the most famous and aesthetically diverse giant clam species in the marine aquarium trade. Revered by high-end reef aquarists for its intricate, elongated shell scutes and striking mantle patterns, this bivalve exhibits an incredible spectrum of colors—ranging from electric sapphire blue and neon turquoise to teardrop gold, zebra black, and deep violet.

Coloration: Multi-patterned velvety mantle displaying vivid cobalt blue, neon cyan, gold teardrops, emerald green, or black-and-blue zebra striping framed by a symmetrical bivalve shell. WYSIWYG.

Growth Pattern: Boring Bivalve (forms an elongated shell featuring prominent, tightly spaced rows of calcified scutes; anchors firmly to rockwork using strong byssal threads). Current size 3-4 inches.

Lighting: High to Extreme (PAR 200–350+).

Water Flow: Moderate to High (Randomized, indirect current to keep the mantle clear of detritus while delivering dissolved nutrients, without causing the mantle tissue to curl inward).

Feeding: Heavily Photosynthetic; derives the vast majority of its energy from symbiotic Zooxanthellae. Juveniles (<2 inches) benefit from dosing live phytoplankton, amino acids, and micro-particulate organic feeds.

Aggressiveness: Peaceful / Defenseless (lacks stinging mechanisms; highly vulnerable to clam-nipping fish like certain blennies, angels, and wrasses, as well as bristleworms and predatory snails).

Care Level: Moderate to Advanced (Requires intense lighting, stable water chemistry, pristine water parameters, and an established system free from aggressive nippers).