Dersea- does size matter?

[koletangz]

I hope to try a dersea clam in my 29g toward the top with pc lighting. The question is would there be a difference between a 3-4in clam and a 5-6in clam? I have heard that the bigger the clam the more light it needs and I have also heard that the bigger the clam the less demanding it is. Anyone who could give me any info on this would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

[kfisc]

fwiw- the larger, the hardier, but derasas wander around- may be difficult to plan on one staying near the top.

 

[koletangz]

Thanks for your reply. So no matter where I put it a little larger one would be better? Should I try to get one in the 6-7in range, I have a large opening in the front of my tank on the sandbed?

 

[bswedenburg]

i have a small 3" Derasa on the sand at the bottom of a 26, it's 21" tall with 110watts pc actinic 03, and one 250w MH that's a 14K Hamilton. it's doing fine and growing. you can see it below on the far right side. HTH

 

[JR719]

With a small clam, around 3 incher you will need to feed every 3 or so days with DT's or equiv. Once it hits 4" or so all it really needs is strong light, like MH. Getting a bigger one is alot less hassle IMO. At least that is what I have learned thru my research.

 

[koletangz]

Thanks for all the replies and the help, but I'm still a little confused. I know that pcs are not the best lighting for clams, but would I be better with a 3-4in or a 5-7? I understand that the ones under 3in require more care and are more difficult to keep.
Thanks, sorry if this is unclear.

 

[inlandreef]

Theycan grow really quick. My Deresa has grown about 1.5 inches in three months. It is now 7 inches

 

[JR719]

koletangz
Best to go with one over 4". Definately requires less work. I have not added anything other than a little fish food in a couple of months and my squamosa is growing. It is under MH lights though. Just remember, the smaller the more work on your part.

 

[koletangz]

Thanks for the answers