Scientific
Name: Tridacna squamosa
Family:
Clams / Bivalves
Common Names: Squamosa Clam
Description:
T. squamosa color is frequently brown with colored
spots or wavy lines. Blue and green spotted specimens are sometimes
seen. The shell is heavy and fairly symmetrical with large prominent
widely spaced scutes. The incurrent siphon has large branched tentacles. The mantle
extends well over the edge of the shell . Maximum size is approximately
16".
Natural Environment:
Indo-Pacific in sheltered deeper (30-50 feet) waters such as
deep water lagoons or reef walls. T.
squamosa clams in the
hobby are both wild caught and farmed.
Care:
Hardiness: T. squamosa is a hardy clam which usually does well in reef tanks.
Lighting: Requires moderate to intense lighting. T.
squamosa is one of the more light tolerant clams
Water Current:
Low to moderate.
Temperature:
Does well within normal reef tank temperature ranges of
75-84°F.
Aggressiveness: None
Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic. They may benefit
from feedings of phytoplankton, but it is not required.
Supplements: Proper calcium levels (400-450 ppm) are important for
growth as is maintaining good alkalinity levels.
Tank Positioning: Position on the substrate in the bottom of
the tank in a low to moderate water flow area. Can also be positioned on
live rock if care is taken to locate it so that it cannot move and fall from its
perch.
Further Reading:
Wonderful
Color Patterns of Tridacna squamosa
By
Daniel Knop
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