T. squamosa is a medium size Tridacna clam that is exceptionally easy to keep in aquariums. The mantle color pattern is easily distinguished form other species. It is golden brown with gold and black spots and sometimes has a green or blue border.Another characteristic are the large scutes or plates on the shell. They are native to the Indo-Pacific coral reefs, and are found in deeper water of 50-65 feet.They prefer a sand bottom instead of rocky surfaces, and do not need as much light as T. maxima or T. crocea in the aquarium. It is an excellent "beginner" clam species.