Clam Care

[macman7010]

I just purchased a 2 inch Blue Crocea Clam for my 35 gallon reef tank. I was wondering what the exact care requirments are for them since I am new to keeping clams. My tank parameters are as follows...

35 gallon reef
salinity 1.023
tempature 82 degrees F
ph 8.3
calcium 450

substrate crushed coral
30 pds of fiji live rock
lighting 6.5 watts per gallon 96 watts true white 10,000k and 96 watts blue acintic

I purchased Marine Snow to feed the clam as well as my other filter feeders and wondered how many times per week I should use it. Also I wondered if it was required that the clam be placed in the substrate facing up, or is on a rock better. Right now he is angled on his side on the substrate.

Any advice would be really great!!!!

 

[Peabody]

My advice: Raise your salinity to natural seawater levels, and constantly monitor ALK as well as Calcium...they need to be high and steady.

Also, put the clam as close to the lights as possible. I've seen croceas and maximas die in around 6 months in similar lighting situations. Not trying to flame or scare, just sharing my experiences.

Also, you should ditch the marine snow...it has been shown to be mostly water and holds little to no nutritional value. Your clam will require several weekly feedings (bowl or feeding bell is preferable) of live phyto. A bottle of DTs will be just fine. This is required till they pass 3 inches.

 

[mbbuna]

peabody's on the mark but i would add to lower ur temp to about 78. 82 is max upper limit for clams