looking for small pretty clams

[Surf]

I'm looking for a pretty clam species, like squamosa or Maxima, but I'm concerned, many of these giant clams grow to be 18" over their lifetimes.

Does anyone have a link or any anectodtal info on how big different species get in aquaria?

 

[kfisc]

crocea remain smallish...but i'm curious if many in the hobby have honestly managed to keep their tanks as long as it would take a 3-5" clam to outgrow it.

 

[Peabody]

What kind of lights do you have and what size tank? That will determine what kind of clam you should get.

 

[Surf]

250 W MH, 110 W PC over 58 gallons. I'm more than happy to upgrade my lighting if need be, BUT I need a clam that will remain under 12 inches for its forseeable lifetime. Are clams senescent (Do they have a "lifetime")?


Kfisc, I too am interested in how many have kept clams for years and how large they have grown in that time. IMO if you aren't thinking long term then you should not be in this hobby, unless you have a plan for what to do with the animals afterwards.

 

[Peabody]

Upgrade.....Nah...you're good! Just put whatever clam under the bulb, and not too far to the side.

Gigas will get too big...they need at least 300 gallons. Squamosa will outgrow the tank in time, but it ccould be at least 10 years.

Maxima and crocea you never have to worry outgrowing your tank...plus, they're the prettiest

 

[Surf]

Thanks, how big do Maximas get after 5-10 years?

 

[Peabody]

Probably 6-8 inches Max (no pun intended)

 

[ReefM@ster]

Some squamosas are also pretty