Crocea clam

Care at a glance

The crocea clam is the smallest of the giant clams kept in the hobby, but carries the brightest, most varied mantle colours of the whole genus. On the reef it bores itself into coral rock with its byssal threads, where it stays anchored for life.

Like other giant clams it lives off light through symbiotic algae in its mantle, so strong lighting and stable water chemistry are essential; extra feeding isn't necessary but can help in a young or nutrient-poor tank. Avoid placing it near flow pumps that blast sand or grit across the mantle, and keep it away from species with long, stinging tentacles.

Good to know

• Needs a mature, stable tank
• Filter feeder — needs fine suspended food

Related species

• Astraea snailAstraea tecta
• Maxima clamTridacna maxima
• Margarita snailMargarites pupillus
• Spaghetti wormLoimia medusa
• Coco wormProtula bispiralis
• Trochus snailTrochus histrio