Tridacna derasa (12cm)

Tridacna derasa, commonly known as the Derasa Clam, is a prized addition to mature reef aquariums. This species is renowned for its large, smooth mantle and vibrant colours, making it a visually striking invertebrate.

At 12cm, this clam specimen is well-suited for marine hobbyists with some experience in clam husbandry. Derasa clams are photosynthetic and rely heavily on strong lighting to support their symbiotic zooxanthellae algae, which provide the majority of their nutritional needs.

Care Requirements

• Lighting: Requires intense lighting, ideally from metal halide or high-output LED systems, to thrive and maintain vibrant mantle colours.
• Water Flow: Moderate water flow is optimal to prevent sediment accumulation on the clam’s mantle while avoiding excessive turbulence.
• Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic, but benefit from occasional supplementation with phytoplankton or specialised clam foods, especially in lower light conditions.
• Placement: Position on a stable, sandy or rubble substrate in a well-lit area of the tank. Avoid direct competition or proximity to aggressive corals that may harm the clam.
• Compatibility: Reef safe with caution; generally peaceful but vulnerable to predation by certain fish and invertebrates such as butterflyfish, angelfish, and some crabs.
• Minimum Tank Size: A minimum of 200 litres is recommended to provide stable water parameters and adequate space.

Additional Notes

Tridacna derasa can grow up to 30cm in captivity, so ensure your aquarium can accommodate its potential size. Maintaining pristine water quality with stable parameters is essential for long-term health.