clam in 55g

[cyclops23]

half the reason i started a sw tank is i wanted to get a clam. i would like to get a derasa, but the problem is my tank size, it's a 55g long measuring 11wide x49 long x24 deep. i got 6 54w t-5 lights, so i don't think that will be an issue, but the derasa gets so big, like half my tank. i know maximas and croceas are small, but i've heard their harder to keep. the clam will be far down the road, though, the tanks pretty new. i also want to get a lawnmower blenny and a lemonpeel angel, would they be ok with a clam?

 

[The steven liu]

These creatures can be kept together no problem. Lemonpeel angels do have a bad reputation with its behavior though so I'd put a question mark on it. One bad thing about 55G is it is very shallow and do not allow enough room for rock work and/or larger creatures like clams. Derasa will probably not ourgrow the narrow side of your tank until a couple years from now but you will have to yield the whole 11" to it. My suggestion is to get a 65G with 18" width so there is more room to work with.

 

[cyclops23]

if the lemonpeel bothers the clam, i'll get rid of it. seems hit or miss with those, but i really like the fish. it'll take a couple years to pay for this tank, much less get a bigger one whats a good second choice for a clam? it'll be a while till i get one anyway, so i have plenty of time to learn about them and save up for a lighting upgrade, if i need one (which i probably will)

 

[Thorium]

I dont think you would have a problem with a dersa. If it gets too big which will be in many years I think you could trade it or sell it. Honesty I would be more concerned with the lawnmower than the angel. Ive read more posts about blennys going after clams than I have angels.

 

[cyclops23]

thanks guys!, i'll probably try my luck with a derasa

 

[critterkeeper]

Both fishes are well known for nipping at tridacnids. Some individuals do, some don't. You have to decide how hard it will be to catch and remove one or both if they become a problem.

Also, some derasas will extend their mantles very far outside the edges of their shell, especially when kept under dimmer lighting. So, don't just look at shell size when trying to decide if it'll fit.