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The Maxima Clam is also known as the Great Clam or Rugosa Clam. It is found in a variety of colors and patterns. In general, Maxima Clams have larger areas of solid color than the other Tridacna clams. The two halves of the shell are elongated and lack symmetry. Like other members of its genus, such as T. crocea and T. maxima, it has ways of attaching itself to the coral reef. It can burrow into the substrate, but not as deeply as T. crocea. It may also attach by its byssal filaments, which it can do in a day, so its first placement in the aquarium should be considered permanent. The Maxima Clam is probably the most widely recognized species of the giant clams. The beauty of its mantle with its rich variety of vivid colorations is highly prized. Its shell may reach a width of up to 12 inches. Maxima Clams are known to live together in great congregations in the wild. In the home aquarium, the Maxima Clam needs bright lighting to live. It requires calcium levels of at least 280 mg/L, preferably 400-480 mg/L, as well as adequate strontium and iodine.
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