Tridacna Maxima Clam - Small

Tridacna maxima clams are true reef animals that rely heavily on strong, stable lighting and excellent water quality. Once settled and happy they become incredible centrepieces, showing intense mantle colour and natural movement throughout the day. As a WYSIWYG specimen, the clam pictured is the exact clam you’ll receive.

Maximas do best under high reef PAR — aim for roughly 350–500 PAR at the mantle once acclimated. Start lower and ramp up over 7–14 days (or use a shaded spot first) to avoid light shock. Place the clam on a flat rock or clam cradle where it can attach with byssal threads; avoid sitting directly on shifting sand unless it’s well supported.

Provide moderate, indirect flow: enough to keep detritus off the mantle but not so strong that the mantle is constantly folded or the clam is being pushed around. Stable parameters matter more than chasing numbers — keep salinity steady, temperature consistent, and maintain reef-level alkalinity, calcium and magnesium to support shell growth.

While they get most of their energy from light, regular feeding improves long-term colour and resilience, especially in newer systems or when nutrients are lean. We recommend daily small feedings of Red Sea Reef Energy AB as part of your routine, alongside normal fish feeding and a balanced nutrient profile.

Maximas are generally peaceful, but keep them away from stinging corals and watch for predators such as pyramid snails. With consistent care, these clams can thrive for years and become one of the most rewarding animals in a reef tank.
Maxima Clam Approximate Size: 8cm across.