Maxima Clam

The Maxima Clam, Tridacna maxima, is a living reef display animal with a broad mantle that contains photosynthetic symbionts. Its long-term care depends on a suitable light field and steady aquarium chemistry, rather than simply placing it wherever an empty space is available.

Choose a solid attachment surface and leave the mantle exposed to light. A removable support makes later repositioning easier without damaging the attachment tissue. Allow gradual adjustment to a new lighting setup, and avoid current strong enough to repeatedly disturb the mantle.

Provide room for growth, maintain calcium and alkalinity, and exclude animals that nip clam tissue. Inspect the shell and underside for unwanted hitchhikers during acquisition.