can micro bubbles irritate clams?

[mc-cro]

I have derasa clam that has been showing irritation for the last several days, and am trying to figure out what is causing the issue.

I have pretty much ruled out everything except for 2 things: my hippo tang and micro bubbles.

I recently did some plumbing work, which has caused a slight case of bubbles. The clam mostly keeps his intake/outake closed, with his mantle pulled in slightly, if not in that position he is mostly closed.

Every so often, he "purges" from his siphons, and little clear strings of slime coated bubble come shooting out. the tang is hanging around very close lately, looks like he is chasing the bubble strings, but he could also be harrasing the clam. although, he has never before in years past.

I am thinking that the micro bubbles are collecting on his gills and causing irritation, and everyso often he clears them out. has anyone ever seen this, or maybe I need to start looking for other problems?

 

[mc-cro]

well, just a few minutes ago at lunch, I caught my hippo in the act. he took a bite off the little fringy flesh at his intake take siphon!!! I threw in some dried seaweed to keep the tang busy for now.

I am still not sure that the micro bubbles arent also causing issues.

once a tang gets a taste for clam, is there any hope? I obviously need to keep the tang fed more often, but I usually travel several days a week, and it will be difficult to keep him occupied and not interested in the clam. any suggestions or experience?