Royal Sunset Tridacna (Tridacna maxima)
Quick Stats
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Colour Form: Stunning Pink Center with Vibrant Gold Hues at the Edges
- Water Conditions: 24-28°C, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025
- Family: Cardiidae
- Lighting: High
- Supplements: Calcium, Magnesium, Strontium, Trace Elements
- Water Flow: Low to Moderate
- Placement: Middle to Upper
Overview
The Royal Sunset Tridacna is a show-stopping clam featuring a rich pink center, radiating soft hues that transition into vibrant gold tips along the edges. This stunning contrast gives it an almost royal glow under proper lighting. Its elegant patterning and striking coloration make it a coveted centerpiece for reef aquariums. Under high-intensity lighting, the golden edges shimmer beautifully, creating a mesmerizing effect that will enhance any reef display.
Care & Feeding
The Royal Sunset Tridacna thrives in high lighting conditions and low to moderate water flow. As a photosynthetic organism, it derives much of its energy from light, but it also benefits from the natural nutrients in the water. Occasionally, it can be supplemented with calcium, magnesium, and strontium to maintain its vibrant colors and support healthy shell development.
Stable levels of calcium and alkalinity are essential to keep this clam healthy and vibrant.
Optimal Parameters
- Alkalinity (dKH): 8-12
- Calcium (Ca): 400-450 ppm
- Magnesium (Mg): 1250-1350 ppm
- Nitrate (NO3): 0-5 ppm
- Phosphate (PO4): 0.01-0.05 ppm
Placement
Place the Royal Sunset Tridacna in the middle to upper sections of the tank, where it can receive bright, direct lighting and gentle flow. Ensure that it has sufficient space to expand, as it can grow over time and will need room for its shell. This clam prefers to be attached to stable rock or substrate to avoid being moved by strong currents.
With its stunning pink center and glimmering gold edges, the Royal Sunset Tridacna is a spectacular addition to any reef tank, providing both beauty and elegance with its majestic presence.