The Black Tiger Clam (Tridacna maxima) is a captivating addition to any marine reef aquarium, prized for its distinctive black-striped mantle and manageable size of around 7cm. As a photosynthetic giant clam, it hosts symbiotic zooxanthellae algae within its tissues, which provide much of its nutritional needs through light-driven photosynthesis.
Care and Husbandry: This species requires moderate to high lighting to support its symbiotic algae, ideally provided by quality LED or T5 reef lighting. Water flow should be moderate to prevent sediment accumulation on the clam’s mantle while avoiding strong currents that could stress it.
Feeding is generally not necessary if lighting and water quality are optimal, but occasional supplementation with phytoplankton or specialised clam foods can promote health and growth. Maintain stable water parameters with a temperature between 24-27°C, salinity around 1.025 specific gravity, and calcium levels near 400 ppm to support shell development.
Compatibility and Reef Safety: The Black Tiger Clam is reef safe and peaceful, making it suitable for community reef tanks. However, it should be placed away from aggressive corals or fish that may nip at its mantle. Provide a secure substrate or rock placement to prevent dislodgement.
Regular monitoring for pests such as clam borers or predatory snails is recommended to ensure long-term health.
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