Derasa Clam

Derasa Clam requires a minimum of 75 gallons for healthy adults. The minimum is based on the species' adult size (24 inches), territorial range, and behavior pattern. Most Derasa Clam sold at small juvenile size will reach full adult size within 12-24 months and the system must be sized to the adult, not the juvenile.

The Derasa Clam needs a tank of at least 75 gallons, a temperature of 76-80°F (24-27°C) and pH 8.1-8.4. Adults reach about 24 inches and live 15-30 years. Best paired with peaceful tankmates of similar size and water-chemistry needs.

Derasa Clam requires standard reef parameters held tightly stable: Temperature: 76-80°F (24-27°C) Specific gravity: 1.025 (refractometer-measured) pH: 8.1-8.4 Alkalinity: 8-9 dKH Calcium: 420-450 ppm Magnesium: 1300-1400 ppm Ammonia + nitrite: Both 0 ppm Nitrate: Under 10 ppm Copper: 0 (lethal to invertebrates) Derasa Clam is sensitive to copper - never medicate the display tank with copper if Derasa Clam is present.

Derasa Clam is a photosynthetic + filter feeder. Powered primarily by photosynthesis through symbiotic zooxanthellae living in the tissue. Supplemental feeding of reef foods supports faster growth but is optional once light + parameters are dialed in. Feed Derasa Clam appropriately for its size + activity level.

Derasa Clam is generally peaceful and compatible with most reef community species. Avoid keeping with predatory fish that view inverts as food: large wrasses (especially halichoeres + thalassoma), triggerfish, pufferfish, and certain large angelfish. Multiple Derasa Clam can share a tank but compete for food. Browse care guides for tankmate-compatibility tables for Derasa Clam and similar species.

Derasa Clam reaches 24 inches at adulthood with a captive lifespan of 15-30 years with proper care. Many marine inverts molt periodically; provide adequate calcium and a stable parameter regime to support healthy molts. The minimum is based on the species' adult size (24 inches), territorial range, and behavior pattern.

Derasa Clam is sensitive to copper, ammonia spikes, low oxygen, and rapid parameter swings. NEVER use copper medications in a tank with Derasa Clam. Symptoms of stress: reclusive behavior, color loss, refusal to feed, abnormal molting (incomplete or stuck molts). Most Derasa Clam deaths trace back to acclimation shock or parameter mismatch - drip-acclimate over 45-60 minutes when adding to a new tank.

Derasa Clam (Tridacna derasa) is native to Indo-Pacific reef ecosystems, with wild populations distributed across coral reefs, sandy lagoons, and rocky tide pools. Captive specimens are typically wild-collected; some species are starting to be aquacultured but most Derasa Clam sold today still comes from wild reef collection. Sustainable sourcing matters - look for vendors who can verify their collection practices, and consider aquacultured alternatives when available.