Natural Habitat

Indo-Pacific

Tank Temperature

75-82°F

pH

8.0-8.4

Specific Gravity

1.022-1.026

Tank Requirements

Requires very low nitrates, pristine water quality.

Feeding

Photosynthetic, filter-feeder; regular feedings of phytoplankton and zooplankton and high direct lighting.

Behavior

Widespread across Indo-Pacific region, highly variable in color. Should be placed on a hard surface like rockwork.

Compatibility

Reef and Invert Safe. Should not be kept with fish or invertebrates that will pick at their sensitive mantle.

Species Overview

Clams are wonderful additions to any reef aquaria, but they do have some requirements that make them more difficult than other inverts to keep. Some research is recommended before purchasing clams to find out what species will work the best in your reef aquarium.

Squamosa Clams (Tridacna squamosa) are sometimes known as "Fluted Clams" or "Scaly Clams" due to their very large, well-spaced "scutes" extended outward from the sides of the shell. They usually have a mottled brown, cream and gold colored mantle that can expand dramatically. Rare green or blue specimens can also occasionally be found. Mantle patterns can be striped, spotted, blotched and variations thereof.

The shell of Squamosa Clams is usually whitish but may have some yellow around the rim or scutes. Most Squamosa's are fairly fan-shaped and the tip of the hinge is usually in the center of the length of the shell. The hinge length can be 1/2 as long as the entire shell. These clams usually have about five or six prominent folds.

The "byssal opening" where the foot and byssal threads are extended from on the bottom of the clam can vary in size and tends to decrease as the clam grows. Most Squamosa Clams are found on rocky crevices or rubble surfaces where they are attached. Some larger individuals have been found unattached on sandy bottoms in the wild but this is likely a result of the clam unattaching and "falling off" the reef face rather than the clam opting for this location.

Squamosa Clams are fairly hardy, especially larger individuals. They require strong lighting and ideal water quality. In the aquarium, place high in the tank under direct light (Metal Halide, VHO, or Power Compact). Smaller clams with smaller mantles rely heavily on planktonic foods filtered from the water for their nutrition. They should be fed regularly with various types of planktonic foods like phytoplankton, zooplankton, oyster eggs, rotifers and similar items. Avoid keeping with potential predators or tankmates that may nip at the clam's mantle like some wrasses, angelfish, crabs, and others.

We always suggest that you do further research before adding a new pet to your tank. What we have provided for you are guidelines and suggestions. If you have any further questions or concerns, please contact our fish room at 717-299-5691 ext. 1213 or marinebio@thatpetplace.com.

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