Crocea or maxima

[sl-atl]

I picked up this 3" clam at the LFS last week. They were note sure if it is a crocea or a maxima, and from the web links I've visited I can't tell either- maybe because it is small. Are there 1 or 2 salient characteristics that distinguish the two? A pic is below if someone wants to give me an ID, but I'd like to know how to tell them apart.

Also, I've read the articles about using live phytoplankton but have had good success with ESV dried phytoplankton with other filter feeders in the tank. Have people had success with ESV for tridacnids?

Thanks!

 

[johnnybravo234]

Maxima. Phyto is not necessary.

 

[acrodave]

+1 for maxima...And as long as you have stronglight and a few fish no need to feed...a little live phyto wont hurt every now and then

 

[a4twenty]

agree, maxima

 

[sl-atl]

Thanks all for the ID! Is there any particular characteristic that gave it away? Just curious.

 

[BKtomodachi]

The mantle patterns, scute characteristics, and general shell shape can all be used.

 

[quicksilverq]

nice little maxima.

 

[tangdiver]

Scutes....