Description
Biota Derasa Clam (Tridacna derasa)
The derasa Clam (Tridacna derasa) is prized for its attractive mantle coloration and smooth white shell. Among the hardiest and most adaptable of the tridacnid clams, it is perfect for the first-time clam keeper. Unlike some tridacnids, this species is perfectly comfortable resting over the sand bed. Though it is somewhat tolerant of suboptimal lighting conditions (at least compared to some of its cousins), we recommend intense conventional reef aquarium lighting for this zooxanthellate animal. While absolutely dependent upon bright light for their survival, their growth and health may be enhanced with the regular use of live phytoplankton such as OceanMagik. These farmed specimens have a lovely blue-rimmed mantle with squiggly golden lines over a dark background.
See below for more information.
Size and Care Requirements
- Purchase Size: ~2-3 in (length)
- Max Size: 24″ (length)
- Water Parameters: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.2-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025
- Color: Dark base color with golden squiggly dashes
- Reef-Safe: Yes
- Diet: Zooxanthellate, planktivorous, detritivorous
Derasa Clam Species Information
This species occurs from Australia and Fiji to Indonesia, Palau, Solomon Islands, Tonga, the Philippines and Vietnam. Populations have also been reintroduced into the Federated States of Micronesia, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. Whether living on reef rock, over the sand or nestled between corals, T. derasa prefers brightly sunlit habitats. It’s dependence on intense light arises from it’s dependence on an endosymbiotic dinoflagellate. To a lesser extent, it obtains food from filter-feeding.
The Benefits of Farmed Derasa Clams
Captive-bred livestock offers a huge advantage over wild-caught specimens. Because they are cultured in captivity, these animals are better adapted to living in an aquarium and tend to be more disease resistant. They are also better able to handle shipping/acclimation stress. By purchasing captive-bred Derasa Clams, you are supporting the aquaculture of marine organisms and helping to make our hobby more sustainable!
100% Alive on Arrival (AoA) Guarantee
We guarantee that every derasa clam we sell will be Alive On Arrival and in good health. Should it arrive in any other state, we will replace it free of charge (including shipping). If the total livestock loss is less than $40, we will issue store credit. For more information, please also visit our 100% Alive On Arrival Guarantee page.
