ID'ing clams
 

Hey all, just lookin for some tips on ID'ing clams, looking specifically for tell tale traits on maximas and crocea


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I am here: http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=51.067227,-114.058793

If you want to ID clams I recommend you buy the book by author James Fatherree called Giant Clams in the Sea & the Aquarium.

+1 great book.

It's pretty easy to tell crocea from maxima. Crocea has a somewhat smooth shell compared to the larger scutes on the side of a maxima. Maxima and squamosa can be a little difficult but squamosa' usually have there mantle extended more and have larger spaces between the shell scutes...due to faster growth.

Best way to tell is by shell shape from a side view.

Maximas are longer on one side, they are sometimes referred to as Elongate Clams
Croceas are somewhat symmetrical and shells are fairly smooth. They are sometimes referred to as Boring Clams.
Squamosas are somewhat symmetrical and have large scutes.