The Maxima Clam is also known as the Great Clam or Rugosa Clam. The mantle is found in a variety of rich and vivid colors and patterns. In general, the Maxima Clams have larger areas of solid color than the other Tridacna clams. The two halves of the shell are elongated and lack symmetry, thus it is sometimes referred to as Tridacna elongata. It has closely spaced rows of scales on the upper portion of the shell. Its shell may reach a width of up to 12 inches. Like T. crocea, it can burrow into the substrate, but not as deeply. It may also attach by its byssal filaments, which it can do in a day. The Maxima Clams are known to live together in great congregations in the wild. Both wild and cultured Maxima Clams are found in the aquarium industry. The Maxima Clam is probably the most widely recognized species of the giant clams.

The Maxima Clam is moderately hardy and requires bright lighting supplied by metal halide lamps to live, grow, and keep its intense colors. The type of lamp will depend on the depth of the tank and the position of the clam. A daylight fluorescent tube is also recommended. The Maxima Clam requires calcium levels of 400-480 mg/L, and a carbon hardness of 7 to 12 degrees. Proper levels of strontium and iodine are also needed. The subtrate should provide multiple areas into which the clam can burrow.

The Maxima Clam relies heavily on the photosynthesis of the algae growing in its mantle. However, it should be fed daily with a yeast-based suspension unless the tank is populated with fish and corals which are fed regularly. It also requires nitrogen for proper growth, and if the nitrate level is too low, additional nitrate should be added, but the level should not be higher than 2 mg/L.

aquariablog’s take: Just got one of these guys and plan to watch him like a hawk to be sure he’s happy. Watching my calcium levels closely. So far so good. Very neat looking creature.