Source: Wikimedia Commons
Giant Clam
IntermediateTridacna sp.
Bivalve with brilliantly colored mantle. Photosynthetic and requires strong lighting. Jewel of the reef tank.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
24〜27℃
Lifespan
10+ years with proper care
Size
5-30cm (varies by species)
Diet
Primarily photosynthesis + trace elements
About
Giant clams (genus Tridacna) are the world's largest bivalve molluscs, housing symbiotic zooxanthellae in their iridescent mantles to derive most of their nutrition from photosynthesis. Native to shallow reefs of the Indo-Pacific, Tridacna gigas can reach 1.2 m in length and 200 kg. Mantle coloration spans electric blues, greens, golds, purples, and browns, making giant clams prized display animals. Successful husbandry demands intense lighting (300–500+ PAR) and stable reef chemistry—calcium 400–450 ppm, alkalinity 7–11 dKH, and magnesium above 1280 ppm. Starting with juveniles (3–5 cm) eases acclimatization; large specimens are placed directly on the tank floor.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Giant Clam
The Giant Clam lives 10+ years with proper care.
Size of the Giant Clam
The Giant Clam grows to 5-30cm (varies by species).
Temperature & humidity for the Giant Clam
The ideal temperature for the Giant Clam is 24〜27℃.
Basic Info
Origin
shallow tropical reefs of the Indo-Pacific
Lifespan
10+ years with proper care
Size
5-30cm (varies by species)
Care Specifications
- Carbonate (KH)
- 8–12 dKH
- Water Temp.
- 24–27℃
- Specific Gravity
- 1.023–1.025
- Salinity
- 33–35 ppt
- Calcium (Ca)
- 400–450 ppm
- Magnesium (Mg)
- 1280–1350 ppm
Light: High (PAR>150)Flow: MediumPlacement: Bottom
Sources: AlgaeBarn: Water Parameters 101
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
CITES Appendix II
Tridacnidae (Tridacna spp., Bivalvia) = CITES Appendix II (all species, listed 1983/1985). Not in the coral order but occurs mixed within this category. Japanese law not applicable.
Sources: NOAA Fisheries: Giant Clam Tridacna spp. CITES App. II
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Giant Clam Listings
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