Clam elevator

[THE GIMP]

Hi !

My clams keep moving around, and i can't seem to make them happy. I'd like to know just how close can I try to place them to a single 400w 20k. I have a ten inch canopy, so the actual lamp is about 6" from the water. I'd like to place one about 8" from the surface of the water, and the other about 12". Thes two perches or spots that seem ideal have a bit of drop off if the clams want to move after I place them there. If they find a way to dive off, will the possible fall and damage worth the attempt to make them happy, or is this a risk I should not take?
And if they little buggers find a spot they like, how long do they take to get a grip on the spot they are on?

tx, TG

 

[THE GIMP]

Well,
One of the clams has been in the same spot for almost two full days after he did a perfect 180 and he has opened completely. So this morning I moved the other one next to it, and now they both seem very happy. Seems the other side was partially shaded, and the little bugger wanted more daylight.
Another observation: On the side where the maxi did a 180 (an exact 180....at first I thought he turned inside his shells....but that is imposible....isn't it?).....there is more flow, two streams, one from the return and one from a Ph that come together. Unintentionally, even the LR is in a funnel conducive to the flow tward where I placed both of the clams. At the point where the clams are, this flow is not forceful, but it is at least 550 gph at the head. The distance from the Ph outlet and the return jet is aprox. 14" in a downward diagonal flow.

:frog:

 

[AQUAN8TOR]

I've had clams reverse their direction several times before they finally settled down. In reference to your question of how close your clams can be, first let me ask what type they are. You referred to one as a maxi, but what is the other. My own personal croceas are quite close to the light source, owing to their need in comparison to other clams. My maximas aren't as close. Also, in placing your clams, and moving them up and down, bear in mind that light intensity is not linearly proportional to the distance from the light source. That is to say, a few inches closer or away from the light source could potentially be many times the light output at a given location. I have a lightmeter, but don't think that's necessary. Happy clamming.

 

[THE GIMP]

Hey Jazzyreef

I understand that light intensity increases exponetialy, thanx for reminding me. They are both maxis, blue from the side of the tank, and a greenish blue from the top, with lots of bright color. One is about three 1/2 inches and the other is four. The little one moved slightly today, but not even close to as much as before. The larger hasn't moved. I think I will leave them in the sand (on abelone shells). I'm thinking i'm pretty lucky if they like the second spot instead of the 5th and sixth, heh.

If you don't mind me asking, what, how, and how often do you feed your clams? How long, through your experience, is your photo period? Any "heads up" will be greatly appreciated.



One more thing, I think I've seen red or burgandy clams, what do you call them?.....i "need" one, heh.

Thanks for the advice, I've learned so much about these guys in this forum.:rollface: