detaching clam from rock.

[TekCat]

Hi, I've started rock cooking due to algae problems. One of rocks has a Crocea (sp?) clam that attached to it. I don't want to harm the clam, but it has pretty tight grip on the rock. Is there a trick/method to detach the clam? I've goggled RC and the only thing I could find with that search that I'd have to cut the strings with a sharp blade. Is there a more "humane" method of detaching a clam?

 

[mbbuna]

the byssal threads are a glandular secretion. they have no blood flow or nerve endings. the clam wont feel a thing.

 

[TekCat]

got it... where is my knife

 

[jmaneyapanda]

Dont do it unless you have to! Animals get stressed by frequent moving, so make sure you need to remove him.

 

[TekCat]

I think I have to remove the clam. The rock will be cooked and I doubdt that clam will survive without light for 8 weeks.

 

[jmaneyapanda]

If you must, make sure you cut the byssal threads as far from the clam as possible. Sometimes crocea clams have the habit of realling boring into a crevice, which will make it difficult. Do all you can to not stress the byssal gland.

 

[TekCat]

hm... what about chiping rock with a chizle and hammer around the clam... this shouldn't hurt it, should it?

 

[jmaneyapanda]

If you must. Not to be a ney-sayer, but I think you should leave it as is. If algae is the concern your trying to remedy, there is safer and better long term solutions, than to put your rock into dark cycle. Especially if it means maybe harming the clam. Just my opinion, though. If your gonna remove the clam, be patient, and careful. I have seen many clams die slow deaths after they were mishandled when trying to be moved.