Squamosa clams can grow to approximately 12-16 inches in mantle length with very thick, patterned shells. It is however a slow grower.  The Squamosas can come in a variety of colors, including bright blues and greens. This bright coloration is mainly located in the many spots covering its mantle.  These clams can be a good choice for beginner to intermediate aquarist with a suitably sized tank.

The Squamosa clams are very hardy and are tolerant of varying lighting conditions; however, they tend to do best under medium to high lighting since the majority of their food (about 80-90%) comes from photosynthesis.  It should be noted that they cannot tolerate lack of light for even short periods.  Usually found in the substrate it is important to have a sand bed.  As they grow they lose their byssus gland which is what many clams use to stay put.  Turbulent rather than linear water flow is also best but they will tolerate a wide variation in flow from low to high.