How difficult is it to keep Derasa Clam?

Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.

What is the ideal temperature for Derasa Clam?

The ideal temperature for Derasa Clam is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

How large does Derasa Clam get?

Derasa Clam typically reaches Shell length to 60cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What is the typical price for Derasa Clam?

The price of Derasa Clam varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Derasa Clam

Q: What should I feed Derasa Clam?

Derasa Clam feeds on: Mainly photosynthesis by the zooxanthellae in its mantle; small specimens also filter-feed on phytoplankton.. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

Beginner

Tridacna derasa

Reaching 60 cm in shell length, with a smooth shell lacking the leaf-like scutes of T. squamosa, which its Japanese name reflects. Fast-growing and hardy, it is regarded as the beginner's giant clam.

Difficulty

Beginner

Temperature

24〜27℃

Size

Shell length to 60cm

Diet

Mainly photosynthesis by the zooxanthellae in its mantle; small specimens also filter-feed on phytoplankton.

About

Tridacna derasa is a giant clam of the Indo-West Pacific. gigas. It lacks the leaf-like scutes of T. squamosa; the shell carries only low radial ribs and is otherwise smooth, which its Japanese name reflects. Zooxanthellae live in its mantle, which is typically brown or gold with blue or green striping. It grows faster and tolerates changing water chemistry better than most of the family, so it is generally treated as the beginner's clam. Its light requirement is lower than that of its relatives, and LiveAquaria lists moderate lighting for it. It does not bore into rock and can sit on sand, which also makes it easy to place. It does reach 60 cm, however, so long-term keeping needs a large tank. The IUCN assessed it as Endangered in 2024, and as a member of the Tridacnidae it is covered by the blanket CITES Appendix II listing. Most clams sold in Japan are cultured.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Size of the Derasa Clam

The Derasa Clam grows to Shell length to 60cm.

SeaLifeBase gives its depth range as 0-20 m, usually 0-15 m, and a maximum shell length of 60 cm, making it the second largest species in the family after T.