Tridacna maxima (Pink-Purple) (8cm)

The Tridacna maxima (Pink-Purple) is a small giant clam prized for its vivid pink and purple mantle colours, making it a striking addition to any mature reef aquarium. At approximately 8cm, this clam is suitable for hobbyists with some experience in marine invertebrate care.

Care and Husbandry: Tridacna maxima requires stable water parameters with a temperature range of 24-28°C, salinity between 1.023-1.025 SG, and low nutrient levels. Moderate to high lighting is essential to support the clam’s symbiotic zooxanthellae algae, which provide much of its nutrition through photosynthesis.

Water flow should be moderate to gentle to avoid damaging the clam’s delicate mantle while ensuring adequate oxygenation and nutrient delivery. Placement should be on a stable, hard substrate such as rock or specialised clam plugs, ideally in an area receiving direct light but protected from strong currents.

Feeding: While primarily photosynthetic, Tridacna maxima benefits from occasional supplemental feeding with phytoplankton or specialised clam foods to promote growth and health.

Compatibility and Reef Safety: This species is generally reef safe and compatible with most peaceful reef inhabitants. However, avoid housing with aggressive fish or invertebrates that may nip at the mantle. Provide adequate spacing from corals to prevent shading and competition for light.

Regular monitoring of water quality and calcium levels is important to support shell growth. This clam can reach up to 15cm in captivity but grows slowly under optimal conditions.