Maxima Clam

About This Competition

• Common Name: Maxima clam
• Scientific Name: Tridacna maxima
• Size: 12 inches (30.5cm) in the wild; Less than 8 inches (20.3cm) in captivity
• Minimum Tank Size: 55 Gallons (208L)
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Care or Experience Level: Moderate
• Preferred Diet: Omnivore
• Original Part of the World: Red Sea and Indo-Pacific

Looking at a mature maxima clam in an aquarium, you can’t help but marvel at the size. No wonder people call them “great clams.” But they’re the THIRD largest of the giant clam species out there. (The average hobbyist doesn’t have the space for its cousins) The smooth giant clam (Tridacna derasa) and giant clam (Tridacna gigas) grow double and triple the size of the maxima. They also put on that size at a faster rate. We’re talking 4 inches (10.2cm) a year! In comparison, a healthy maxima only adds around 0.08-1.6 inches (0.2-4cm) each year. (Hence the name “SMALL giant clam”)

But when you’re looking for a stunning bivalve for your reef tank, you can’t ask for better. The mantle of the maxima clam comes in bright shades of blue, green, turquoise, and gold (and every shade in between). You’ll also find different patterns – with a few rare solid clams out there. You may even spot a variety with pigmented eyespots along the edge of the mantle. (Not a common find!) Under proper lighting, these mollusks stand out and draw a crowd.