Clam
Open Mon–Sat 10am–6pm · Sun 1pm–6pm. Usually ready the same day.
- Kept in our system until you collect
Overview
Tridacna clams are some of the most striking animals in the reef hobby, with richly patterned, iridescent mantles in blues, greens, golds and purples that rival any coral for colour. Beyond their looks, they're also genuinely useful additions to a reef system.
Like corals, clams carry photosynthetic zooxanthellae in their mantle tissue, meaning they get much of their energy from light rather than behaving like a typical filter-feeding invertebrate.
Role in the tank
Clams constantly pump large volumes of water through their bodies, filtering out fine particulate matter and absorbing dissolved nutrients like ammonia and nitrate directly from the water. This makes them a genuine, ongoing contributor to water quality alongside their obvious visual appeal.
Care
Drip acclimate slowly and carefully - clams are sensitive to sudden changes in water chemistry. They need strong, stable lighting similar to what you'd provide for demanding corals, along with consistently high calcium and alkalinity to support their rapid shell growth. Avoid strong direct flow, since it can cause the mantle to flap and stress the animal; moderate, indirect movement is best.
Compatibility
- Generally safe with peaceful reef fish and most invertebrates
- Avoid housing with hermit crabs, certain wrasses, and dwarf or large angelfish species known to pick at clam mantles
Care tips
- Place with the mantle facing directly up toward the light for maximum photosynthesis
- Never lift a clam by its mantle or byssal foot - handle it by the shell only, and move the rock it's attached to rather than detaching it
- Smaller clams under about 7-8cm benefit from supplemental phytoplankton feeding; larger specimens rely mostly on light
- Keep calcium, alkalinity and magnesium stable and well-tested, since clams draw on them heavily for growth
How collection works
Order & pay online
Check out and pay securely. We set it aside and hold it ready for you.
We get it ready
It stays in our system until you come in — usually ready the same day.
Collect in store
Drop in to 280 North Road, Eastwood, and pick it up.
