do I need to feed my clam?

[goulding.c]

Do I need to feed my clam? If so what and how often? All of my corals are lps or softies and I usually don't feed directly but I usually add some drops of the kent phyto stuff. I wasn't sure about the clam though, he is golf ball size squamosa I think. Tan inside with many very tight stripes. Thanks for the help!

 

[CorbetJackson50]

the clam will filter feed on phyto you may want to target feed with a turkey baster.

 

[JENnKerry]

It's been said that smaller clams (under 3") should be fed til they get bigger. It is then when they start to get their nutrition from their mantles.

 

[James77]

The smaller clams need to be fed(up to about 2 or 3")- as they get larger, they rely more on photosynthesis.

 

[Johnsteph10]

...although it is up to some debate as to whether even small clams filter feed all that much.

 

[goulding.c]

Thanks for all the help! I guess I will keep feeding once in a while with baster and keep adding the phyto drops.

 

[mbbuna]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6867158#post6867158 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by goulding.c
Thanks for all the help! I guess I will keep feeding once in a while with baster and keep adding the phyto drops.

clams feed slowly all day long. your not squirting anything in the clam are you? if you are stop,its not good for the clam. just add a small amount to the tank everyday that's it

 

[mace88]

Yes if it is healthy it will close up if you try and feed it directly. Watch and make you do not feed to much and run water quality.

 

[Bebo77]

http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=589

From the site...

The Squamosa Clam is also referred to as the Scaled Clam. Its species name squamosa is the Latin word for scale. The numerous rows of large scales over its entire shell are often used as shelter by other organisms, such as small crabs, other clams, and other invertebrates. The shell is symmetrical, and the matching growth pattern in its shell allows it to close together very tightly when it needs to. The Squamosa Clam is often found living amongst Acropora coral, anchored by its byssal filaments. It has a wide byssal opening and long tentacles surrounding its incurrent siphon. The Squamosa Clam can grow up to 12 inches or larger in the home aquarium.

The Squamosa Clam is hardy and less demanding of high intensity light. Even so, bright light supplied by halide lamps will help it grow and keep its intense colors. The type of lamp will depend on the depth of the tank and the position of the clam. A daylight fluorescent tube is also recommended. The Squamosa Clam requires calcium levels of 400-480 mg/L, and a carbon hardness of 7 to 12 degrees. Proper levels of strontium and iodine are also needed.

The Squamosa Clam relies heavily on the photosynthesis of the zooxanthellae cells growing in its mantle. However, All clams also require micro foods designed for filter feeders, especially when small. Offer phytoplankton and other micro-foods, such as Marine Snow.

 

[Serioussnaps]

Dont use the phytoplex or marine snow crap. Full of nutrients, and algae fertilizer. Go with live phyto made yourself or DT's phytoplankton. Look into the bowl feeding of DTs, it works.