1st Clam Questions

[boz151]

Hi,
I have done some reading on this forum, particularly the first thread with all the links, great stuff. I have a couple of questions abut my new T. Maxima.

1) I have a 65g AGA tank with 2 x 250w 10k (soon to be 14k) MH's and 2 x 55w PC actinics. Will the clam be fine on the sandbed (24" from the surface). Lights are approx 6 " from the water.

2) I have seen it recommended that Maxima's be placed on rock. Do most folks do that so they can move them around once they are assimilated or is it truely their preference? And if so, what the best way to do that, place them on a rock frag at the bottom for a week or so while they assimilate and then move them up?

3) How long does it generally take for them to attach to somethingm whether it be sand or a rock frag?

Thanks for your time and input.

Boz

 

[Sloth]

1 - I think it would be fine on the sandbed. Might also want to suppliment with phyto to be sure.

2 - Maximas are prone to attaching to rocks, but not as much as croceas, I believe. My maxima was attached to the rocks, but kept jumping off and landing on the sandbed. So that's where I left him. A healthy maxima can scoot pretty fast and will find a spot it likes, whether you like it or not

If you want it to attach to a rock and not worry about balancing it on the rockwork, what I did was bury a small rock in the sand. I tried to find a relatively flat rock. I put the rock about 1-inch down and nestled the clam above it. You can make a little rock barrier around the clam so he doesn't leave the area. The clam will reach its foot down through the sand and locate the rock, and attach to it. Then dig up the rock and clam and put them where you want. But don't be surpised if the clam severes its threads connecting it to the rock and leaps back down to the sand. That's what mine did.

3. I would give it a week to really find the rock, and another week to attach. Sometimes they just never attach though. Its all up to the clam. My maxima was perfectly happy in the sand with not attachment.

 

[boz151]

Thanks Sloth. I appreciate the guidance.