Hi,
I am having some problems with the clams that I keep. To date I have lost 2 and a third is now showing signs of the same thing.
Basically the mantle of the clam will not fully open. It starts in only a small area of the mantle and spreads to the whole thing over a period of weeks. The effected mantle is shrunk back and curls up slightly and eventually the clam dies there is no loss of coloration etc.
I have studied the Sprung book on clams and it would seem that a parasite would be to blame, however the last clam that showed these symptoms was checked VERY thoroughly on many occasions both day and night and I could find nothing. I had a six line wrasse in the tank but never saw it take any interest in any of the clams. I have seen no signs of any parasitic snails. I do have bristleworms in the system but again they have never bothered any of my clams in the 20 months that I have been keeping clams.
Any help here would be appreciated as I do not want to lose this clam as it a is particularly lovely specimen of a maxima in light blue and gold. It also cost me a fortune!!
Thanks,
Cam.
I am having some problems with the clams that I keep. To date I have lost 2 and a third is now showing signs of the same thing.
Basically the mantle of the clam will not fully open. It starts in only a small area of the mantle and spreads to the whole thing over a period of weeks. The effected mantle is shrunk back and curls up slightly and eventually the clam dies there is no loss of coloration etc.
I have studied the Sprung book on clams and it would seem that a parasite would be to blame, however the last clam that showed these symptoms was checked VERY thoroughly on many occasions both day and night and I could find nothing. I had a six line wrasse in the tank but never saw it take any interest in any of the clams. I have seen no signs of any parasitic snails. I do have bristleworms in the system but again they have never bothered any of my clams in the 20 months that I have been keeping clams.
Any help here would be appreciated as I do not want to lose this clam as it a is particularly lovely specimen of a maxima in light blue and gold. It also cost me a fortune!!
Thanks,
Cam.