Keeping Clams in the Reef Tank by greg.chernoffI remember getting about six months to a year into this hobby, thinking I knew everything about proper water parameters, lighting, dosing, and keeping a reef tank in general. Or, at least enough to keep most coral alive. I had zoanthid, leather, and ricordea colonies thriving and my rose Bubble Tips had never looked better, so I must be doing everything perfectly, right? And then, my focus settled onto clams. Specifically, a bright blue Maxima Clam at my old LFS. He was about two inches, and the most beautiful clam I had seen them get in. We quickly purchased him, took him home, and added him to my tank. A few days later, I woke up to find my clam gaping open, and bristleworms eating the dead tissue. Unfortunately, I was still a beginner at the time that had gotten way too confident and didn’t do the proper research into clam care requirements until it was too late. From talking with other hobbyists, this seems to be a mistake nearly all of us made at some point with certain corals or invertebrates. [CInverts] A Brief Rundown of Each Species Four common species are kept in home aquaria. Here is a quick description of each: Derasa Clam Tridacna Derasa is one of the larger clams we keep in tanks, and typically regarded as the hardiest. These can reach 24 inches in diameter. Due to their natural wide spread habitat all throughout the reefs within the Pacific Ocean and Coral Sea, most Derasas at your LFS are going to be wild specimens that were farmed in the ocean instead of aquaculture facilities. Their mantles are usually gold, brown, or yellow with electric blue or green trim around the edges. Fast growers, they need to have ample space within the tank as they can triple in size within the span of one year. Squamosa Clam Tridacna Squamosa has seen increasing popularity within recent years. Reaching about 18 inches maximum, this clam is known to be a bit less demanding than the other species in the lighting and flow department. Scutes, or scale/leaf like shelf growths on the outer side of the shell of Squamosas is the easiest way to identify them. Small fish or fry my use these scutes as shelter from larger tankmates. Like Derasas, this clam is very widespread and can be found on nearly any reef substrate. Mantles are usually brown, with black, tan, gold, yellow, orange, white, green, and/or blue markings. Although rare, some have a completely blue mantle with darker colored markings. This color morph is highly sought after, and thus very expensive. Maxima Clam Tridacna Maxima are the most popular clam species. They are the second smallest of the four, only reaching sizes of 12 inches. Their shells are less symmetrical than the other three, and grow small, close together scutes on the outside of their shell. Maximas are slightly pickier than Squamosa and Derasa clams in that they require a hard, rocky surface to attach to and will move around until they find a spot they approve of. Inhabiting rocky reefs in great numbers, congregations of this clam can be found from Africa, Australia, Japan, to Polynesia, along with in the Red Sea. They are the most widespread of all tridacnid clams. And, because they often live in shallower waters, they can be pickier about flow. Maximas typically will not do well with simple linear flow. Mantles are diverse, and beautiful. Patterns may include stripes, spots, marbling, splotches, or other intricate displays. Colors include bright blue, dark blue, purple, gold, green, pink, black, red, orange, and more. Crocea Clam Tridacna Crocea is the slowest growing and smallest giant clam species, only reaching 6 inches in size. Much like Maximas, they can be found in large congregations and come in striped/spotted/blotched patterns consisting of blue, green, gold, tan, purple, brown, and orange colors. Unlike the others, though, Crocea clams will burrow into your rockwork by boring a hole into it over time. Unfortunately, most of these clams in the aquarium trade are wild specimens. To distinguish between these and Maximas, remember that Croceas have smaller and less defined scutes, along with a longer and wider byssus gland. Body Structure of Giant Clams Although clams seem like a simple animal, they have complex organs. Each have gills, a stomach, a heart, kidneys, gonads, siphons, mantles, byssus gland, byssal threads, hyaline organs, eyes, and more. Corals do not possess these, so they require far fewer calories than clams do to survive. That is why you may have enough bioload and light for corals, but not nearly enough to support a clam. For example, my 48 inch, four bulb T5HO fixture was enough for LPS and softies, but not nearly enough to keep a clam happy. Water Parameters This is the first place many aquarists will fail. Clams need a tank that has stable salinity (SG of 1.023-1.025) , alkalinity (9-12 dKH), calcium (380-450 PPM), pH (8.1-8.3), nitrates (2-20), strontium (6-10 PPM, utilized in shell growth), and iodine (0.04-0.08 PPM). If any of these parameters falls out of place, the clam will suffer and likely die. Nitrates are usually a problem for SPS keepers, who tend to keep them close to zero. But, clams require nitrates of at least 2 ppm, or they will starve. Calcium and Alkalinity, and the other elements to a lesser degree, are used very quickly by clams and must be tested regularly to ensure you or your doser is dosing enough back into the system to keep up with the clams demand and usage. Lighting This is the second place where most fail. Clams need intense lights, and typically high quality, powerful LEDs or halides are recommended. But, young clams under 2 inches are easily damaged by light. All sized clams need to be properly acclimated to intense lighting. Starting your Tridacnid low in the tank and lowering the intensity of your lights is a good way to start. You can ramp your lights up and move the clam higher little by little every week until it is fully acclimated. Unless you are feeding older clams multiple times a week, most recommend a PAR rating of 250+ is typically recommended, and scientific experiments have shown they are much more productive at PARs of 700-1200. That being said, some do have success keeping clams in 100-250 PAR areas if they are fed well and often. But, I would highly recommend shooting for 250-500 PAR given how shallow the natural environment is for these animals. Feeding Most clams available are under 4 inches. Under 4 inches, most still require supplemental feeding of zooplankton, phytoplankton and bacterioplankton (e.g. PNS Probio™) about twice a week. Unfortunately, I also see mostly 1-2 inch clams in fish stores. At this size, they require these feedings daily for healthy growth and survival. While getting a baby clam can be much cheaper, and you get to watch it grow, remember you will need to dedicate time every day to feed it. Over 4 inches, you can relax on feeding. Many aquarists don’t feed their clams at all as the tanks waste and the clams zooxanthellae are plenty to keep it happy. But, because they do require some nitrates and dissolved wastes in the water column to consume, fish keepers with low bioload tanks should expect to still feed once or twice a week to make up for having fewer fish. This is one area where having a heavily stocked tank is actually extremely beneficial and directly benefits your inhabitants. Clams filter tons and tons of water daily, so they will act as a nutrient sink in even the most overcrowded tank. Obviously, if you are going to have a heavy bioload, do the proper research and stay responsible! Flow Water movement is crucial. Because they come from shallow reefs, clams are used to strong current and waves. But, most home aquariums rely on plain linear flow. While clams do not prefer this, they can adapt to live with it as long as you set it up correctly. You need to ensure that the water flow doesn’t cause your clams mantle to fold upwards much, and that the clam doesn’t retract its mantle too much. If these things occur, your giant clam will ultimately die. Be sure his mantle is fully extended during the day, and appears to be full, happy, and actively pumping water through its siphons. Final Words- Aquacultured Clams Finally, if you can find them or request your LFS order one specifically, purchase aquacultured clams instead of wild farmed/harvested ones. Some of these species are so over fished that they have gone nearly or completely locally extinct in some areas. They are relatively easy to breed in aquaria, so most species are easily found aquacultured. Wild clams are also much more difficult to acclimate and maintain in tanks, while their aquacultured counterparts are much more forgiving. In addition, they won’t (or shouldn’t) come in with hitchhikers. Many small snails, crabs, and bacteria consume clams and will ride in on them when collected from the ocean. To ensure your investment doesn’t have pests that will quickly eat it (and possibly tank mates) on it, aquacultured is the way to purchase. If you can get your hands on one, and are able to provide for the clams needs, Tridacnids make beautiful centerpieces to any reef tank! [CInverts]
Asad Khan says November 25, 2019 at 2:41 pm Very Informative Article. Helped out a lot in deciding whether or not my tank is right for a clam. Reply
Betillo says April 8, 2021 at 11:48 pm Great article! I love having the beauty these animals offer, in my system! So cool to watch! Reply
Michael Kirby says April 9, 2021 at 2:27 pm I love maxima clams and they are challenging animals to keep in a reef environment but as long as your water chimerstry is spot in your clams do wonderful ! Reply
eriks says April 13, 2021 at 9:21 am Make sure water is pristine as is your reef. Lighting, flow and space has to be just right. Reply
Carlos Matias-Tejada says April 19, 2021 at 2:49 pm i completely agree. i saw a blue maxima at my LFS…good thing i did not purchase it! i am not ready yet. Reply
mkirby076 says April 7, 2021 at 5:04 pm Clams can be real tough to take care of for sure just got to make sure that all of your water chemistry is in check ! I test my water weekly to make sure that my water is correct ! Reply
Asad Khan says November 25, 2019 at 2:45 pm I’ve been thinking about buying a clam but after reading this article I’m not too sure they will thrive in my tank. Very informative! Reply
vmancine26 says April 5, 2021 at 5:28 pm A great starter clam for a beginner is the derasa. This clam is the most forgiving. Thank you algaebarn great read. Reply
Kelly says November 25, 2019 at 3:06 pm I had one die. I should not have had it on the sand bed. It was an expensive mistake Reply
mkirby076 says April 7, 2021 at 5:06 pm Clams can be real tough to take care of for sure just got to make sure that all of your water chemistry is in check ! I test my water weekly to make sure that my water is correct ! Reply
Bethany Souza says November 25, 2019 at 3:50 pm I’ve had regular clams in my tank since the beginning those things never bother and never die. Reply
Jonathan says November 25, 2019 at 6:10 pm Be careful if you have fulgida worms. Took me awhile to get a clam to live because they kept killing them. They are rather crafty and fast. Reply
Erick says April 6, 2021 at 6:34 pm More information than an 80’s article in Reef Aquarium Hobbyist. Reply
Nicholas Nevins says November 25, 2019 at 6:27 pm I cant wait to get one when my tank cycles and stabilizes Reply
Nick says November 25, 2019 at 6:28 pm I cant wait to get one when my tank cycles and stabilizes Reply
Nickn says November 25, 2019 at 6:43 pm Clams are so beautiful i hope to own one once .y tank is ready for one not entirely sure which one yet but i know where i will get it Reply
Juan Perez says April 28, 2021 at 10:44 am Now with this info I’ve got a better chance of keeping one alive Reply
robert vice says November 25, 2019 at 7:11 pm I love the clams got 2 maximas and a durassa thanks squamosa next or a gold maxima cant decidebut I just did my first feeding of the clams instead of just broadcast feeding Reply
Mike Mijarez says November 25, 2019 at 8:27 pm Wow can’t wait till I reach the point of keeping a clam in my tank! Reply
Jennifer Kennedy says April 6, 2021 at 5:13 am Very informative and thorough! Definitely takes specific parameters to keep these beauties amd prospective buyers are able to take all of this into consideration thanks! Reply
Joe car says November 26, 2019 at 12:16 am I want a clam but I don’t have the lights to keep one. Reply
dartagnon_1965 says November 26, 2019 at 3:15 am Never thought about keeping clams, may give it a try. Reply
dartagnon_1965 says November 26, 2019 at 3:16 am Never thought about keeping clams, may give it a try some day! Reply
Joe Car says November 26, 2019 at 6:48 am Clams or on my wish list. Once I get better lights I will look Into getting one! Reply
Becky says November 26, 2019 at 7:00 am I am excited to get a clam when my new tank is up and has been running for a while. Reply
fletch says November 26, 2019 at 9:54 am As soon as my pods are at healthy numbers to support a Mandarin, a Maxima is my next “must have”. Thank you for the article Reply
Liz McDaneld says November 26, 2019 at 11:44 am It would be awesome to have a clam if I ever get a big enough tank. Reply
Michgander reefer says November 26, 2019 at 5:35 pm I love how the clams look in the tanks but always to afraid to try Reply
Michgander reefer says November 26, 2019 at 5:35 pm I love how the clams look in the tanks but always to afraid to try Reply
Michael Heinrich says November 26, 2019 at 7:25 pm Some of my favorite animals in the aquarium, right under SPS. Reply
Chris S. Buswell says November 26, 2019 at 7:28 pm A blue clam is my “final goal” for my reef…but I won’t jump in until I know it can be kept alive and content. Reply
Matt Blefeld says November 26, 2019 at 7:50 pm Had a derasa foe over a year and then one of my wrasses developed a love for the mantle. Bye bye derasa Reply
Meghan Mulkerin says November 26, 2019 at 7:54 pm Amazing! I had no idea they have eyes!! Thanks for the awesome article Reply
liesle_memmott says November 26, 2019 at 8:55 pm Good information, we lost our first clam. I have a goal of getting one some day. I want a more “established” tank first, at least a couple years old. But this gives me good information! Reply
bad72nova says November 26, 2019 at 9:17 pm Very good read for a beginner. Spelled out cleanly. Reply
Christopher Burns says November 26, 2019 at 9:50 pm someday i will have a tank large enough and set up well enough to care for a clam Reply
Richard Baer says November 26, 2019 at 9:54 pm Outside of stable parameters, quarantining is the best tip I have based on my experience. I had six clams in my 175, then brought home a seventh. The new clam died after about two weeks, and the others started looking bad; retracted mantles, constantly contracting and tipping over, then I lost all six of my established clams over the next two months. In hindsight, the new clam must have carried a parasite into the tank which spread to the others. Never again. I now quarantine clams for two months in my mixed reef tank before moving to my SPS/clam tank. Reply
Dallas Tippie says November 27, 2019 at 12:05 am I tried keeping a clam early on in the reefing hobby. Sadly, I did not have much success. But I do appreciate their beauty! Reply
Jesse says November 27, 2019 at 12:56 am It would be so amazing to have a beautiful tank for “keeping clams” in. Reply
Jose j aguayo says November 27, 2019 at 1:45 am have a maxima for a few years now , doubled in size doing great! Reply
whwhunt says November 27, 2019 at 9:32 am Can’t wait to have a maxima it is one of my dream animals to keep. Reply
aaron says November 27, 2019 at 12:25 pm this is very helpful information I’m considering getting a clam Reply
dcallahan56789 says November 27, 2019 at 12:31 pm Great info!!! any tips on keeping clams when yout nitrates are below 2? Reply
Constantino Zarate says November 27, 2019 at 4:15 pm Always been hesitant to keep clams, but your products are making things easier and easier! Thanks for the info! Reply
Nicholas Steele says November 28, 2019 at 5:20 am My girlfriend wants a clam really bad but we only have a 20G tank for now. Reply
Richard Gorelick says November 28, 2019 at 6:11 am Unfortunately we lost a beautiful clam to an angel a couple years ago but we are look forward to trying again. Thanks for the advice! Reply
Richard Gorelick says November 28, 2019 at 6:55 am Unfortunately, we lost a clam to an angel a few years ago but looking forward to trying again. Thanks for the advice! Reply
Richard says November 28, 2019 at 7:10 am Unfortunately we lost a clam to an angel a few years ago but looking forward to trying again. Thanks for the advice! Reply
Richard Gorelick says November 28, 2019 at 4:26 pm Lost a clam to an angel a few years ago,might have to try clams again. Thanks for the advice. Reply
Echo says November 28, 2019 at 9:13 pm I’m hoping to get some clams when I get a bigger tank in a couple years. Reply
Louiesen Felipe says November 29, 2019 at 9:42 am I accidentally acquired 2 small clams (1 inch or less) when I bought 2 colonies of Zoas in a reef con. Short story – I killed both due I didn’t even noticed it until one after the other opened and died. 🙁 So thanks for this info. Hopefully soon I can have one and make it thrive. Reply
Tyler says November 29, 2019 at 1:18 pm Clams are pretty fascinating little guys! Have a pair of mine doing nicely in the nano setup. Reply
Wesley Spangler says November 29, 2019 at 9:22 pm I purchased 1 clam in my 7 years of having a reef tank. It was tiny and died fast. I’ve came close to buying another one but havent. I’m now getting the itch to try again. Reply
Wesley Spangler says November 29, 2019 at 9:34 pm I’m about ready to give another try at keeping a clam. I’ll definitely go aquacultured Reply
James says November 30, 2019 at 7:51 pm I have had my derasa clam for 10 years now over a foot long. Feeding is key in my opinion and starting with a clam over 3 inches. Reply
Bret Petri says April 6, 2021 at 9:19 pm I’ve kept them on and off over the last 30 years. When they’re small feeding is definitely key. Reply
Shaun says August 22, 2020 at 8:35 pm This article gave me a lot of great things to think about before adding a clam to my aquarium. Once I get all of the fish I want in there and make sure i have adequate lighting, i plan on getting an aquacultured crocea or a maxima clam. Thank you very much for this information. Reply
Alex says April 5, 2021 at 2:11 pm Ive always wanted a clam but not really sure if I was ready for one. Reply
Matthew Sjoblom says April 5, 2021 at 3:17 pm Clams are some of the most underrated invertebrates around. Beautifully and majestically over 100% perfect for marine aquariums. From being photosynthetically fed but, by also phytoplankton to filter feeding what else can you not do to keep it running for years Reply
Natalie Fernandez says April 5, 2021 at 3:58 pm When I get clams I think I’ll go with either Maxima, or Crocea. It’s like tending to an orchid, a lot of work goes into it but it’s worth it to look at something so pretty! Reply
Tommy Drywater says April 5, 2021 at 4:16 pm I didnt have much luck with a 3.5″ maxima clam. Unfortunately 5 days after I hot it I had to leave out of town for work and my alk dropped from 7.9 to 6.2. It was nothing but a shell when I got home a couple days later. Reply
Lee Shipley says April 5, 2021 at 4:29 pm I know they aren’t a clan, but flame scallops are the coolest Reply
michaelohl says April 5, 2021 at 4:54 pm Tried a Blue and a gold Maxima but neither made it. I can keep acros but not clams. I’ll try a squamosa or durasa over 3″ next time. Reply
Jaih Williams says April 5, 2021 at 5:29 pm Awesome post with great information that I can utilize when I win the clam give away. Reply
Daniel Heyman says April 5, 2021 at 5:32 pm Really interesting about the size and corresponding care requirements Reply
lisa.harn.elliott says April 5, 2021 at 6:12 pm It’s so great that there are aquacultured options available now! Reply
Kimberly says April 5, 2021 at 6:52 pm Good info! Thank you. Hope to have a clam added to my system soon. Reply
kymlewis78 says April 5, 2021 at 7:22 pm Great info in steps to getting read to add a clam or three to our setup!! Thank you! Reply
kymlewis78 says April 5, 2021 at 7:22 pm Great info in steps to getting read to add a clam or three to our setup!! Thank you! Reply
Emily says April 5, 2021 at 7:27 pm Very informative. Really gave me the details I needed on how to care for a clam. Reply
Erin Paterson says April 5, 2021 at 7:34 pm I would like a couple clams to put in our 400 gallon. Reply
CHRIS GODFREY says April 5, 2021 at 8:15 pm Great article. Explains why I’ve had a hard time with two I’ve gotten from the lfs. Better make sure everything is really good before getting another. And will try from here next time for sure. Reply
Scott Schuette says April 5, 2021 at 9:45 pm Great information! I look forward to a Maxima clam making a home in my mixed reef tank one day. Reply
Cuong Nguyen says April 5, 2021 at 10:15 pm Very informative information but missing information on Gigas, which are my favorites! Reply
ambermarie714 says April 5, 2021 at 11:02 pm Wonderful article with tons of information. I don’t have any clams in my reef tank but thanks to this article it is going to help me decide if I should get one and what kind to get. Thanks again Algae Barn for keeping us reefers loaded up with info 🙂 Reply
ambermarie714 says April 5, 2021 at 11:02 pm Wonderful article with tons of information. I don’t have any clams in my reef tank but thanks to this article it is going to help me decide if I should get one and what kind to get. Thanks again Algae Barn for keeping us reefers loaded up with info 🙂 Reply
Phil Tomaskovic says April 6, 2021 at 12:04 am I had a clam once in a 30 g tank with MH lamp that was about size of a mini football. I doubt I’d ever be that lucky again with my leds. Reply
Rory Morgan says April 6, 2021 at 1:38 am Can clams provide a means of nutrient export on a similar level as refugiums or other bacteria-based methods (e.g. carbon dosing)? Reply
Paul says April 6, 2021 at 4:06 am My maxima has made it through all of the good and the bad in my system. Was probably 3” when I got it, and is now around 8-9” and is definitely the center of my reef. Also a huge Alk sink!!! 🙂 Reply
wizardsgraphics says April 6, 2021 at 4:31 am I kept two flame scallops and they died after about 4 months then I was told this was common in aquarium settings I have always wanted to try to keep a clam this would be cool to win one nice information Reply
Salomon says April 6, 2021 at 4:54 am I always wanted a clam. I feel like I am finally ready for it. Reply
Matt Hess says April 6, 2021 at 4:55 am Great article. I had now thought about the mineral requirements for their shells. Reply
Patrick Pokrop says April 6, 2021 at 5:02 am Had a baby gold maxima in my tank for a few weeks now and so happy that he’s doing well! This is a great article about how demanding clams are but they’re well worth the effort. Reply
Kevin says April 6, 2021 at 5:04 am Very informative. It seems that clams are very hard to keep. Reply
Zane Greay says April 6, 2021 at 7:24 am Love clams and would love to have a beautiful one in my new tank! Reply
Kaci Thomas says April 6, 2021 at 8:41 am Never had a clam before but willing to give them a try Reply
Jared Corrigall says April 6, 2021 at 8:53 am Once I get some larger corals removed from the tank and space is available, I look forward to getting a couple of these. Really pleased to see a greater variety of captive grown species. Thank you Algae Barn! Reply
Michael R. Armus says April 6, 2021 at 9:06 am The best article on Clams I’ve seen in a while. Algae Barn is the correct place to buy clams and food for all your tank friends. Keep up the great work Algae Barn Reply
Michael R. Armus says April 6, 2021 at 9:10 am Hands Down Algae Barn is the correct place to buy all your Clamming needs. That is a great article on Clam and how to keep them alive in a Reef Tank.Take Algae Barns advice and you cant go wrong. Reply
Connor Basile says April 6, 2021 at 9:31 am Really thoughtful article! I used this as a starter guide for preparing to order my clam from Algae Barn! Reply
Jason Borawski says April 6, 2021 at 9:40 am This was one of the main reasons I started getting into reefing and not just fish. Clams are so insanely gorgeous and the colors are alway the most talked about when people came over Reply
john-3645 says April 6, 2021 at 9:40 am Just got my first Maxima Clam this weekend. named him calamity. 🙂 Reply
Chris Poynter says April 6, 2021 at 10:16 am Are any of the clams suitable for keeping in a nano tank with the AI prime LED light? Reply
Miguel says April 6, 2021 at 10:37 am Great article – if you looked at the hybrid clams that are in the market? Reply
Allen Lawrance says April 6, 2021 at 11:21 am I’ve had a lot of success with my crocea clam and I think dosing Ocean Magik definitely helped, especially while it was still small. Reply
Sho Omoto says April 6, 2021 at 11:44 am Thanks! Really want to add clams to my tank, this helps. Reply
Matthew Mckeown says April 6, 2021 at 12:02 pm Love me some clams. Especially when clownfish host. Reply
Jonathan Gray says April 6, 2021 at 12:14 pm Always thought taking care of one of these clams was hard but mine is thriving and growing. I want another 🙂 Reply
Jeffrey Felter says April 6, 2021 at 12:17 pm I love clams I think they are what got me into this hobby. Reply
Richard Branham says April 6, 2021 at 12:50 pm A lot of information on clams. I didn’t realize the recommended PAR that they require. I’ve always wanted a clam or two in my reef and now want them more than ever. Reply
Holly Furlong says April 6, 2021 at 2:44 pm I love my squammy. Clams are a rewarding addition to any tank! Reply
William Cameron says April 6, 2021 at 4:19 pm Just saying, this is the kind of information that every soon-to-be clam-owner should read before trying to own and care for a clam. Great post. Reply
Tanis Allan says April 6, 2021 at 4:22 pm I would love to have massive gigas clam as a centerpiece for my tank. Reply
lilsnowbaby4life says April 6, 2021 at 4:44 pm I’d love to get a clam one day. They’re like a staple piece for a tank. Reply
Chell Slayton says April 6, 2021 at 5:11 pm A clam would be an awesome addition to my lagoon tank since I’ve added a cross wave pump. Great article, thanks! Reply
Chell Slayton says April 6, 2021 at 5:11 pm A clam would be an awesome addition to my lagoon tank since I’ve added a cross wave pump. Great article, thanks! Reply
Kevin Gillenwater says April 6, 2021 at 6:26 pm Thanks for the article. Really intrigued about having a class in my tank. Reply
Soren Shurtleff says April 6, 2021 at 6:31 pm I’ve never kept a clam, but I’d love to in the future Reply
Justin Amick says April 6, 2021 at 6:32 pm Love clams in the tank every tank I have has at least 1 in it Reply
Justin Amick says April 6, 2021 at 6:32 pm Love clams in the tank every tank I have has at least 1 in it Reply
Erick says April 6, 2021 at 6:36 pm More informative than an article from Reef Aquarium Hobbyistin the 80s. Reply
dcreeron says April 6, 2021 at 6:44 pm Lots of good info; wish I had this years ago when trying my first clam. Didn’t go so well. Reply
rm.dyer says April 6, 2021 at 8:56 pm After getting rid of my puffer I’m thinking about getting a clam! I’d love to find a blue and pink one! Reply
Katelynn says April 6, 2021 at 9:07 pm I love my blue Máxima and I’d love to get a blue crocea to match!!! Algae barn has the best prices! Reply
14jhargenrader says April 7, 2021 at 3:31 am Great article summing up the different subspecies of giant clams! Reply
KURT BRINK says April 7, 2021 at 4:42 am Was considering adding to a couple to a lagoon progect. good info Reply
Oscar Saavedra says April 7, 2021 at 6:20 am i always wanted a clam in my reef thanks for all the info. Reply
Chell Slayton says April 7, 2021 at 6:46 am Clams are some of the coolest looking tank janitors Reply
Marcie L. Ramsay says April 7, 2021 at 7:44 am I’ve read this article a couple of times, and I’ve purchased a Blue Maxima twice. Unfortunately, I’ve not been successful at keeping either; both died within a couple of days after delivery and placement in my tank. My parameters are within range, with nitrates at 20-40ppm. I’ve started the clams low and center in the tank, but perhaps the lighting was still too high. I have multiple powerheads with variable flow and am pretty certain the flow is not linear. Currently, I’m puzzled as to why they didn’t survive; perhaps I should have spot fed them daily (?) in the beginning. Yes, it’s quite horrifying to find the gaping shell and your cleaners snacking on the remains! . Reply
Scott Chase says April 7, 2021 at 9:50 am Captive bred are the only way to go, rate of disease on wild clams is way to high. Reply
brian.prado.cht says April 7, 2021 at 4:15 pm It’s sad that even “great” local reef shops like the one I purchased mine a month ago said nothing like this article. I love reading algae barn articles because they’re always so informative! I do feed algaebarns phytoplankton but my par level where my 2 inch clam sits gets about 150 par. Local reef shop said that was sufficient. Going to have to up my lighting. The clam is actually the main peace of the whole tank. My thoughts on getting a small tank was exactly that, ill get to watch it grow for years and years to come Reply
dsims369 says April 8, 2021 at 10:24 am Great article! I’ve been wanting a clam but haven’t been able to because of my puffer & boxfish 🙁 Luckily I’m setting up a new tank soon! Reply
Clinton DeVine says April 8, 2021 at 5:28 pm I’ve always wanted a clamps in my reef tank. Great information. Reply
Audrey Fisk says April 9, 2021 at 4:28 am They l so unique in a reef tank. Would love to have one, wish they weren’t so expensive. Reply
chad.parks says April 9, 2021 at 2:34 pm I am 70 days into a bio cube 16. I’d love a clam, but want to make sure I am past all the new tank issues that seem to come up out of nowhere. When is a good time to introduce a clam? Reply
Jason McClure says April 9, 2021 at 2:42 pm Good article. Would be a great addition to discuss the types of pests that may irritate and/or kill the clam as one of the areas for success. Reply
Joe Willis says April 9, 2021 at 8:15 pm In all my years of reefing I’ve never had a clam. I’m anxious to try one soon. Reply
coreyherron says April 10, 2021 at 1:19 am I failed a few months ago keeping a clam. I’ve done a lot of research since Reply
Edward Leising says April 10, 2021 at 9:06 am Please forgive me, I am not educated on marine clams. Please do not enter me in this contest. I only have limited knowledge of walking clams, which can be elusive and quite hard to figure out . None the less they give me great pleasure to take care of. Everyday clams are quite affordable especially when bought in twos and threes. At this price you you can enjoy them all and even eat a couple. They can be a little messy , especially when they squirt in your eye. Gotta go get me two more three. Edward Leising Reply
ADAM WOODS says April 10, 2021 at 9:08 am Readinh the commwnts i learned. Few things about clams Reply
Michael Mangina says April 10, 2021 at 10:24 am I’ve been a hopeless romantic when it comes to our clammy friends!!! I always dreamed of a forever clam, but never seemed to be able to satisfy their needs. This article has been beneficial to me. All in good time! Have a great day everyone! Reply
Michael Mangina says April 10, 2021 at 10:25 am I’ve been a hopeless romantic when it comes to our clammy friends!!! I always dreamed of a forever clam, but never seemed to be able to satisfy their needs. This article has been beneficial to me. All in good time! Have a great day everyone! Reply
Michael Mangina says April 10, 2021 at 10:27 am Loved the article Always been looking for a forever clam It’s always been tough to keep for me Reply
Kimberly Timms says April 10, 2021 at 10:44 am Clams are so cool! Would love to have a few for the new tank. Reply
Chris Bena says April 10, 2021 at 1:09 pm Tried once… didn’t make it. Hoping to try again some time. Reply
ANCHOR SARSLOW says April 10, 2021 at 7:22 pm Maxima, I like Maxima. Its the most blue and only a moderate size.. How can you go wrong with a maxima. Reply
Eric says April 10, 2021 at 8:47 pm I was on your site studying clams then noticed your contest. Nice timing. More studying needed Reply
Jasmine says April 11, 2021 at 1:05 am We had a 9″ Gold Maxima for years in our deep bed reef, now that we have moved and are setting up our new system we are in the market for a new clam! I miss it dearly! Reply
Mark Beacher says April 11, 2021 at 1:43 am Looking forward to adding a blue maxima to my reef. A challenge for sure, I think I’m ready. Reply
Anthony says April 11, 2021 at 7:27 am It has long been my goal of keeping a gorgeous claim in my reef. Reply
Bryan Robertson says April 11, 2021 at 7:56 am Never had class in my aquarium and would definitely love to try getting some. Reply
Charles maresh says April 12, 2021 at 2:50 pm Great info. Really helped me in setting up a area for one when tank is ready. Reply
Marcos Ostria says April 12, 2021 at 7:23 pm Great article. Would love to keep a clam. Not sure I am ready but this helps a ton. Reply
SusanJAlvarezMD says April 12, 2021 at 10:52 pm This definitely points out a lot of mistakes I have done myself in the past. I had an awesome clam for four years that suddenly died when my tank crashed. Lessons learned. Can’t wait to get a new clam for my tank again! Reply
Matt says April 12, 2021 at 10:56 pm I would love to put some clans in my refugium for filter feeding Reply
John Sage says April 13, 2021 at 12:42 am When you say they act as a nutrient sink, do you mean they reduce nitrates? Reply
pumas0511 says April 13, 2021 at 2:31 am As always, great article with a lot great information, very necessary for all hobbyist. Thanks ? Algaebarn. Reply
dagenhartchris says April 13, 2021 at 4:29 am A very helpful and informative article, especially for a new reefer. Thank you for informing me. Reply
Douglas Ward says April 13, 2021 at 4:48 am Clams are fascinating. I really appreciate the info and look forward to adding clams to my ecosystem eventually!! Reply
David Cruz says April 13, 2021 at 5:04 am Aquaculture is just do much better for the natural environment and keeping these critters in our tanks. It’s a win win Reply
Matthew Smoyer says April 13, 2021 at 6:27 am I didn’t realize that the smaller ones needed to be placed on rocks. Thanks Reply
Michael Wilson says April 13, 2021 at 8:19 am I’ve had clams before with little success , but this article has given me confidence to hopefully succeed . Reply
Catherine says April 13, 2021 at 8:29 am I would love, love, love to have a couple of croceas! Very informative. Reply
scott biron says April 13, 2021 at 10:16 am i have two clams so far, they are great. one of them i have had for 2 years and started at about 2″ and is now HUGE , about 9″ and just plain awesome Reply
Michael Horton says April 13, 2021 at 11:08 am I actually had the best success with my first clam in my current tank which was a deresa. However, I think I ruined a good streak with that tank by changing my lighting from T5s to LEDs and not getting them dialed in correctly. Follow that up with a round of every kind of plague algae. I’ve actually switched back to T5s, and have a small maxima that seems to be doing pretty well. It’s not the prettiest having a mostly dark brown mantle, but I felt like I got a good deal on it at $30! Reply
Louisa JAmes says April 16, 2021 at 5:37 pm Thank you for the information. I’m finally at the point where I can get a clam. Reply
kitemabyrd says April 19, 2021 at 2:04 pm I found the article very informative as I prepare to purchase a clam for my tank. This article helps me to narrow down which clam that I would like to purchase and the importance to test my water parameters and lighting are correct. Thank you for sharing this article! Reply
John Kellar says April 19, 2021 at 8:06 pm Nice information. I’ve wanted a clam for a long time. Based on this info, I think I’m going to go with a Derasa. Reply
heatherlv31 says April 20, 2021 at 6:47 am This is great info! I tried in beginning, now my tank is established. Think it would be a good time to try to keep a beautiful clam! Reply
Daniel Lenger says April 20, 2021 at 10:45 am Clams aren’t near as scary as people make them out to be! Theyar actually relatively easy! Reply
Jen FE DE LEON says April 20, 2021 at 11:51 am This is a really nice overview of the most popular clam species in the hobby. I’ve bookmarked this page for reference. Thanks! Reply
Steve Miller says April 24, 2021 at 1:00 pm I’m def going to buy the clam and setup from algae barn Reply
Justin Zollar says April 26, 2021 at 2:09 pm Wow, great information. I just got my first Maxima clam, and this was helpful! Reply
obwhan says April 28, 2021 at 9:28 pm I’ve been thinking about buying a clam but after reading this article I’m not too sure Reply
joshirwin2 says May 1, 2021 at 10:49 am Fingers crossed I win but can’t wait for the blue maximas to come in stock! Reply
Keeping the Gigas Clam There is something almost archetypal in the legend of man-eating clams. Perhaps this evokes allegorical imagery of a greedy or overly plucky sort of fool Read More about Keeping the Gigas Clam
Frequently Asked Questions: Keeping Giant Clams At AlgaeBarn, we are always happy to hear from our customers and we often are asked a lot of questions about husbandry. Sometimes, we will see a trend in Read More about Frequently Asked Questions: Keeping Giant Clams
AlgaeBarn is celebrating the octopus! Everyone's favorite eight-armed mollusk is having its very own day! October 8th is Octopus Day, and what better way to celebrate than by learning a few fun Read More about AlgaeBarn is celebrating the octopus!
