Maxima Clams are the most prolific clams on the market today. Their intense coloration and hardy nature have made them extremely desirable for the most picky of reef hobbyist. They have many color morphs from “Electric Blue” to “Neon Green,” but they all require high lighting, moderate water flow and sufficient nutrient levels.  The Maxima Clam is not as hardy as some other clams nor as easy to care for so considered for the intermediate to advanced aquarist.

Maxima Clams are best placed either in the sand bed (for tanks with strong lighting) or on the rockwork closer to the lights if you are not using MH’s or T5’s as it requires strong lighting.  Moderate turbulant flow and very stable water conditions are important and a mature system is vital.   They are not sand dwellers to need to be positioned on a hard surface.  While these clams can grow to 12 inches they are slow growers averaging 0.1-1.5 inches per year.  It is advised to purchase specimens 3 inches and up as clams under 4 inches require feedings with phytoplankton or commercially prepared micro-foods.  With fish present in the system larger specimens will not require this direct feeding.