How big is the Maxima clam?

Maxima clam (Tridacna maxima) reaches 20–40 cm in length.

At what depth can you find the Maxima clam?

Maxima clam is found between 1–20 m deep.

What is the conservation status of the Maxima clam?

IUCN status: Least concern (LC).

Where can you find the Maxima clam?

Found in: Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea.

Maxima clam (Tridacna maxima)

Key facts

Scientific name: Tridacna maxima
Common name: Maxima clam
Category: Molluscs
Family: Cardiidae
Genus: Tridacna
Size: 20–40 cm
Depth: 1–20 m
IUCN status: Least concern (LC)
Danger level: Harmless
Habitats: reef
Behaviours: sessile, photosynthetic
Ocean zones: Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea

Description

Tridacna maxima reaches 40 cm. Giant bivalve embedded in coral, colored mantle displayed between valves with spectacular blue-turquoise, green and black patterns. Colors come from zooxanthellae (symbiotic algae) providing sugars via photosynthesis. Permanently anchored in coral or calcareous substrate. Simultaneous hermaphrodite. Present from the Red Sea to Polynesia between 1 and 20 m. Exploited for aquarium trade, local protections.

Photo of Maxima clam

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Maxima clam?: Maxima clam (Tridacna maxima) reaches 20–40 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Maxima clam?: Maxima clam is found between 1–20 m deep.
Is the Maxima clam dangerous to divers?: Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Maxima clam?: IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Maxima clam?: Found in: Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea.

Other species in the genus Tridacna

Other species in the family Cardiidae

Sources

Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 207675)
Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 4372625)
Conservation: IUCN Red List
Encyclopedia: Wikipedia