Keeping Giant Clams: Tridacna Species Guide

Giant clams (Tridacna spp.) are stunning additions that photosynthesize like corals while also filter-feeding.\n\nPopular species:\n- T. maxima: Most colorful, moderate size (12 inches), needs strong light\n- T. crocea: Smallest, bores into rock, intense colors, high light\n- T. derasa: Largest commonly kept (24+ inches), lower light needs, hardiest\n- T. squamosa: Moderate size, moderate light, beautiful patterns\n\nCare requirements:\n- Lighting: 200-400 PAR (species dependent)\n- Calcium: 400-450 ppm (heavy consumers)\n- Alkalinity: 8-9 dKH\n- Placement: On rockwork for maxima/crocea, sandbed for derasa/squamosa\n- Flow: Moderate, indirect\n\nFeeding:\n- Primarily photosynthetic\n- Supplement with phytoplankton 1-2x weekly\n- Larger clams benefit from occasional target feeding\n\nThreats:\n- Pyramid snails: Check mantle and base regularly\n- Pinched mantle disease: Often fatal, quarantine new specimens\n- Insufficient light causes gaping and slow death