Is this clam suitable for beginners?

According to the species data, this clam is generally considered an intermediate-level species. It's best to have some experience with water quality management or coral keeping before adding one.

How large does it grow?

It reaches a maximum shell length of about 15 cm. It's the smallest species in the giant clam family.

Can it live with other corals and fish?

It can generally be kept alongside other reef inhabitants, but some fish and shrimp are known to nip at the mantle. It's worth checking compatibility before adding tankmates.

Can I move it after placing it in the tank?

This clam bores into coral rock and anchors itself in place for life. Since it's difficult to relocate once settled, choosing the right spot from the start is important.

Are there any legal restrictions on this species?

Boring Clam (Tridacna Crocea) is listed in CITES Appendix II. International trade requires a permit from the exporting country, but as far as CITES is concerned, no registration is needed to buy or sell individuals already legally in Japan.

Boring Clam (Tridacna Crocea)

The crocea clam (Tridacna crocea) is the smallest member of the giant clam family, growing to a maximum shell length of around 15 cm. It gets its English name "boring clam" from its habit of burrowing into coral rock, where it anchors itself for life. Its mantle shows some of the richest color variation of any clam species, with vividly patterned individuals prized as aquarium centerpieces. As the most commonly available Tridacnid in the trade, it's a popular choice for reef keepers who want a compact clam with striking colors, though its care is generally considered suited to intermediate-level aquarists rather than complete beginners.

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Boring Clam (Tridacna Crocea) key facts

Care level: Intermediate
Size: Shell length to 15cm
Temperature: 24〜27℃
Diet: Mainly photosynthesis by the zooxanthellae in its mantle; small specimens also filter-feed on phytoplankton.
Lighting: LiveAquaria lists high lighting. Since most of its nutrition comes from photosynthesis in the mantle, insufficient light causes the mantle to retract and the clam to decline. A position directly under metal halide or high-output LED suits it.
Flow & Placement: LiveAquaria lists medium flow and a bottom-to-middle position. As a rock-boring species it should sit on live rock or a flat piece of coral rock rather than on sand. Flow aimed directly at it will keep the mantle retracted.
Water Temperature & Quality: Water 24-27C, specific gravity 1.023-1.025 (33-35 ppt), KH 8-12, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1280-1350 ppm. Shell growth consumes calcium heavily, so dose and test for it consistently.
Feeding: Most of its nutrition comes from photosynthesis by the zooxanthellae in its mantle. Adults need little feeding, but specimens under about 5 cm rely more on filter feeding and benefit from added phytoplankton.
Notes: The IUCN lists it as Least Concern, but as a member of the Tridacnidae it falls under the blanket CITES Appendix II listing and international trade requires permits. A mantle that will not open, retracted edges, or no response to light all signal trouble. Severing the byssus is usually fatal, so never force a clam off the rock it has attached to. Check at night for parasitic pyramidellid snails around the shell gape and remove them.

TraitsGiant clamBivalveCITES IIPopular

About Boring Clam (Tridacna Crocea)

The crocea clam is the smallest giant clam species, reaching up to 15cm in shell length. Known for burrowing into coral rock and its vivid mantle colors, it's best suited to intermediate-level aquarists.

7 things to know before welcoming a Boring Clam (Tridacna Crocea)

1Where It Settles Matters
The crocea clam bores into coral rock and anchors itself there for life. Since it rarely relocates once settled, choose a spot with steady water flow and light before placing it.
2Prefers Strong Lighting
Its coloration depends heavily on the photosynthesis of the zooxanthellae living in its tissue, so it thrives under strong lighting. Insufficient light can dull its mantle color and vigor, so provide lighting comparable to other photosynthetic corals.
3Needs Stable Water Quality
It's sensitive to sudden shifts in water chemistry and tends to struggle in newly established or unstable tanks. It does best in a mature aquarium with consistent calcium and trace element levels.
4Intermediate-Level Care
As reflected in the species data, this clam is generally considered suited to intermediate-level keepers. Some prior experience with water quality management or coral keeping makes it easier to care for confidently.
5Unique Mantle Colors
Mantle coloration varies widely between individuals, with blue, green, orange, and other patterns all possible within the same species. Being able to pick an individual by its actual coloring is part of the appeal.
6Watch Mantle Behavior
A healthy clam extends its mantle broadly in response to light and water flow. If it stays closed or looks shrunken for an extended period, take it as a cue to check water quality and placement.
7Consider Tankmates
Some fish and shrimp may nip at the mantle tissue. Because certain tankmates can injure the clam this way, it's worth thinking carefully about tankmate compatibility.

Frequently asked questions about Boring Clam (Tridacna Crocea)

Q.Is this clam suitable for beginners?: A.According to the species data, this clam is generally considered an intermediate-level species. It's best to have some experience with water quality management or coral keeping before adding one.
Q.How large does it grow?: A.It reaches a maximum shell length of about 15 cm. It's the smallest species in the giant clam family.
Q.Can it live with other corals and fish?: A.It can generally be kept alongside other reef inhabitants, but some fish and shrimp are known to nip at the mantle. It's worth checking compatibility before adding tankmates.
Q.Can I move it after placing it in the tank?: A.This clam bores into coral rock and anchors itself in place for life. Since it's difficult to relocate once settled, choosing the right spot from the start is important.
Q.Are there any legal restrictions on this species?: A.Boring Clam (Tridacna Crocea) is listed in CITES Appendix II. International trade requires a permit from the exporting country, but as far as CITES is concerned, no registration is needed to buy or sell individuals already legally in Japan.