How can you tell?

[MizTanks]

Having just read an article about Tridacna Crocea clams and the effects of lighting. I now have a question When I look at my clam from top down the coloring is very vibrant and blue but with some browning. Yet when I look at it straight on it looks much duller. What coloring do I go by when deciding if it's getting enough light or not?

The article stated that if the clam is showing a lot of browning or spots, it is then getting to much light. I've always assumed my clam wasn't getting enough light under my t5HO's. I'm so confused

[CalmSeasQuest]

All Tridacna clams look more colorful from the top (at least all that I have seen.) Your's is a Tridacna crocea - Once acclimated, you cannot give it too much light.

Here's Live Aquaria's take on Croceas...

Tridacna crocea are relatively hardy clams, and require intense lighting and good water flow in the home aquarium. Proper water chemistry is very important, and they will thrive when calcium levels of 380- 450 mg/L, alkalinity level of 8-11 dKH, and magnesium level of 1280-1350 ppm are maintained.

[binford4000]

I agree with CSQ,it's really hard to give a clam to much light. Flow is very important also. Not blasting flow tho just a nice consitant flow. Your T5's should be more then enough as long as you keep up with the bulb changes. Another very important thing is to feed your clams! I know these things you already know just adding a little more is all. I always look for the clams not opening. This is a sure sign your clams having a hard time and look for the start of the tissue separation. If you see these or real change in color as stated then you know it's chowder time.!

[MizTanks]

It's actually doing quit well, 9 months now I just want it up off the LR due to the freaking bristle worms and would like to give it a little more light. I think the Tonga branches just may be the way to go. I'll make a nice upwards extension, cover it with some zoa's (got plenty of those) and it'll be the focal point of the tank