Tridacna maxima (small giant clam) BIRUG 19135

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BIRUG 19135 is a recent discovery of Tridacna maxima, commonly referred to as the 'small giant clam' - a close relative of the true 'giant clam', or Tridacna gigas. In its natural state, the small giant clam boasts vibrant blue or green mantle colors similar to those of its larger cousin, but rarely grows larger than 20cm. This species obtains most of its nutrients through photosynthesis due to a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae called zooxanthellae, in addition to filter feeding. The colors of the mantle are produced by pigment cells that may shield it from intense sunlight and/or enhance the photosynthesis of symbiotic zooxanthellae. Tridacna maxima has a wide distribution, inhabiting sandy substrates and coral reefs in the southwest and central Pacific, as well as the Indian Ocean, the Red Sea, southern and eastern African coasts (including Madagascar), and Colombia. This particular specimen was collected in Australia in 1884 by G. B. Sowerby III. Scanning of this specimen was carried out by Sian Miller using an Artec Spider 3D scanner.