Derasa Clam, Thin Bar, Aquacultured
Tridacna derasa is also known as the Southern Giant Clam or Smooth Giant Clam and is the second largest species within the Tridacna genus, capable of reaching up to 24 inches in the wild. Unlike many other Tridacna species that feature a large byssal opening, Derasa clams have a narrow gap on the underside of their thick, smooth shell. They are often mistaken for Tridacna gigas, especially when small. Identification can be made by the presence of six to seven vertical folds in the shell, which can be fully closed. In contrast, Tridacna gigas has only four to five vertical folds and cannot fully close its hinged shell.
Product Specifications
| Species | Tridacna derasa |
|---|---|
| Shell Type | Thin bar |
| Origin | Aquacultured |
| Shell Folds | 6 to 7 vertical folds |
| Byssal Opening | Narrow |
FAQ
How can I tell the difference between Derasa Clam and Tridacna gigas?
Derasa clams have six to seven vertical folds in their shell and can fully close the shell. Tridacna gigas has four to five vertical folds and cannot fully close its shell. The narrow byssal opening in Derasa also helps distinguish it from T. gigas.
Is this clam suitable for a home aquarium?
Yes, Derasa clams are well-suited for marine aquariums due to their ability to filter water and provide a natural aesthetic. They require stable water conditions and adequate space to grow properly.
What is the origin of this clam?
This clam is aquacultured, meaning it is grown in controlled aquatic environments rather than harvested from the wild.
Robert Slater –
The Derasa clam arrived healthy and looks exactly as described. The shell is smooth with clear vertical folds, and it fits well in my tank. It’s easier to identify than I expected, and it’s a great addition to my marine setup.
Phil Lee –
I was initially unsure about the difference between Derasa and T. gigas, but the detailed description helped. The clam is active and has started filtering water effectively. It’s a beautiful piece in the tank.
Emma Langdon –
The aquacultured quality is impressive. The clam is strong, has fully closed its shell, and shows no signs of stress. I appreciate the clear specifications and accurate labeling.