ORA Ultra Black & Color Maxima Clam 1.5″Â for Sale
The ORA Maxima Clam (Tridacna maxima) is a vibrant saltwater invertebrate prized for its colorful mantle patterns and sustainable aquaculture origins. Unlike wild-harvested clams, ORA specimens are aquacultured, ensuring resilience, better adaptation to aquarium life, and reduced impact on natural reefs. Mantle colors range from deep blues and purples to teals, golds, and greens, often patterned with stripes, spots, or marbling that shift under reef lighting. With proper care, these clams become long-lasting, reef-safe centerpieces. Many reef keepers ask whether maxima clams clean the water, how large they grow, or what grades are available—ORA provides healthy, sustainable options in multiple sizes and grades, but availability is limited compared to wild clams.
Key Facts
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tridacna maxima |
| Family | Cardiidae |
| Origin | Aquacultured (ORA) |
| Max Size | Up to 12 in |
| Purchase Size | 1.5 inches |
| Lifespan | Decades with proper care |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Minimum Tank Size | 30 gallons |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Diet | Photosynthetic, may benefit from phytoplankton |
| Temperature | 75–82°F |
| pH Range | 8.0–8.4 |
| Salinity | 1.024–1.026 SG |
Appearance
The ORA Maxima Clam displays an elongated shell with ridges and a mantle that glows with vivid coloration. Hues include blues, purples, golds, teals, and greens, often with stripes, spots, or marbling that shift under different light conditions.
Care & Requirements
Maxima clams require stable reef conditions and strong lighting to thrive. High-intensity LEDs or metal halides with PAR levels of 250–350 support photosynthesis. Moderate, indirect flow is preferred, as strong direct currents can cause stress. While most nutrition comes from zooxanthellae in their mantle, smaller specimens benefit from phytoplankton feedings. Maintaining calcium (380–450 ppm), alkalinity (8–12 dKH), and magnesium (1250–1350 ppm) is critical for shell growth. Place clams securely on live rock or a stable substrate, as they may anchor with byssal threads.
Do ORA Maxima Clams need to be fed phytoplankton?
Smaller clams benefit from supplemental phytoplankton, while larger clams rely mainly on photosynthesis.
What tank size is best for ORA Maxima Clams?
A 30-gallon tank is the minimum, though larger, mature reef aquariums offer better long-term stability.
Can ORA Maxima Clams survive under moderate lighting?
They require high-intensity reef lighting and will not thrive in low-light setups.
Tank Mates & Compatibility
ORA Maxima Clams are peaceful and reef safe. They coexist well with most reef fish and invertebrates but should not be housed with predators such as triggers, puffers, or certain angelfish that may nip their mantles. Snails, tangs, and clownfish make suitable companions.
Are ORA Maxima Clams safe with tangs and clownfish?
Yes, these fish pose no threat and are compatible tank mates.
Which fish should be avoided with ORA Maxima Clams?
Avoid predators like triggerfish, puffers, and angels that may damage the mantle.
Can ORA Maxima Clams be placed near corals?
Yes, but provide enough space for clam growth and to prevent shading.
Aquaculture/Availability
ORA Maxima Clams are consistently aquacultured, making them a sustainable alternative to wild-caught specimens. This ensures better survival in aquariums, reduced disease risk, and minimal environmental impact. ORA offers multiple grades—First Grade, Gold, and Ultra Color—each selected for mantle vibrancy and unique patterns.
Are ORA Maxima Clams always aquacultured?
Yes, ORA specimens are aquacultured, not wild-caught.
What sizes are available for ORA Maxima Clams?
Common purchase sizes are 1.5 to 3 inches, though they may reach 6–12 inches in captivity.
Do ORA Maxima Clams differ from wild clams in care?
Yes, aquacultured clams adapt more easily to aquariums than wild-caught clams.
Why Buy From Oceansgarden.com
- Captive-Bred & Sustainable: Many of our fish and invertebrates are captive-bred or sustainably sourced to promote healthy reef ecosystems.
- Expert Care Before Shipping: Every animal is maintained under professional aquarium standards for health, diet, and water quality.
- Live Arrival Guarantee: We stand behind each shipment with a Live Arrival Guarantee for your peace of mind.
- Fast, Reliable Shipping: Orders are packed with proven methods and shipped overnight to ensure safe arrival.
- Transparent Policies: Clear shipping, refund, and guarantee information available on every order page.
- Trusted by Hobbyists: Backed by years of experience and thousands of satisfied marine aquarium keepers across the U.S.
FAQ
How fast do ORA Maxima Clams grow in aquariums?
They grow slowly, usually less than 1 inch per year. With time and stable care, they may reach 6–12 inches.
What grades are available for ORA Maxima Clams?
ORA offers First Grade, Gold, and Ultra Color grades, based on mantle coloration and patterns.
Do ORA Maxima Clams help filter aquarium water?
Yes, they filter particulates while feeding, which can improve water clarity.
How long do ORA Maxima Clams live?
With proper lighting and stability, ORA Maxima Clams can live for decades.
Can ORA Maxima Clams be moved once placed?
They attach with byssal threads, so placement should be chosen carefully to avoid stress.
Are ORA Maxima Clams suitable for beginner reef keepers?
They are moderate-care clams, better suited to aquarists with some reef experience.
What is the ideal substrate for ORA Maxima Clams?
They can be placed on live rock or sandy substrate but must remain stable to prevent tipping.
How can I tell if an ORA Maxima Clam is healthy?
Healthy clams show quick shadow response, a fully extended mantle, and steady shell growth at the edges.
| size | 1.5 inches |
|---|
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