The Black Tiger Clam (Tridacna maxima) is a captivating giant clam species prized for its distinctive black and white striped mantle pattern. Growing up to 20cm in captivity, this clam adds both colour and interest to mature reef aquariums.
Care Level: Moderate to advanced. This species requires stable water parameters and moderate to high lighting to support its symbiotic zooxanthellae algae.
Feeding: While Tridacna maxima derives much of its nutrition from photosynthesis, it benefits from supplemental feeding of phytoplankton or specialised clam foods to promote growth and health.
Compatibility & Reef Safety: This clam is considered reef safe and peaceful, making it suitable for reef tanks with non-aggressive tank mates. Avoid housing with large predatory fish or invertebrates that may nip at the mantle.
Tank Requirements: A minimum tank size of 120 litres is recommended to provide stable water quality and adequate space. Moderate to strong lighting (such as T5 or LED reef lighting) is essential to support photosynthesis. Moderate water flow helps prevent detritus accumulation but avoid direct strong currents that may stress the clam.
Placement: Place the clam on a stable, sandy or rubble substrate where it can attach securely. Ensure it receives sufficient light without shading from corals or rockwork.
Regular monitoring of water parameters, especially calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium, is important to maintain shell growth and overall health.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.