Gold Maxima Clam

The Gold Maxima Clam (Tridacna maxima) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe, admired for its brilliant golden mantle coloration, intricate patterns, unique fluted shell structure, and relatively manageable size compared to other giant clams.

Males and females are not easily distinguishable externally, as this species is a protandric hermaphrodite—they begin life as males and can later develop female reproductive capacity. Juveniles are typically smaller with less intense coloration, which develops and intensifies as they mature.

They reach about 12 inches in adulthood and should be housed in aquariums of at least 100 gallons to ensure stable water quality and sufficient space. Provide a stable sandbed or firmly placed live rock ledge where the clam can attach with its byssal threads. Strong lighting (metal halide, T5, or high-output LED) is essential to support the clam’s symbiotic zooxanthellae, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4, calcium ~380–450 ppm, alkalinity 8–12 dKH, magnesium 1250–1350 ppm).

Unlike fish, clams do not jump, so a lid is not required.

Diet consists primarily of photosynthesis via symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae), but juveniles and smaller specimens benefit from supplemental feeding of phytoplankton and marine microalgae. With proper care, this invertebrate makes a stunning, long-lived centerpiece in reef aquariums.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.