Does size matter

[Psychographic]

While at my LFS today, I saw 2 clams that were about 3/4-1" . He's not sure but thinks the are Derasa Clams. I love getting things small and watching them grow. Now for the question, at this size are they hard to keep? This would be my first attempt at keeping a clam. Should I pass on it or give it a try? I would be keeping it in a 40 breeder with a 250 14K DE light.

 

[TearDrop]

At that size, they are little more delicate. It would be better if they were around 3"+. However, Derasa's are one of the more less demanding clams...I would pass on them and get a larger one.

 

[botp2k1]

Agreed with TD, especially for your first dip into clams.

 

[cristhiam]

My first clams was a 1" max, I still have it 2 years later it's grown to about 2.5 - 3", the problem with a small clam is getting lost somewhere in the tank or a crab or fish moving it around. Mine attached to a half shell and still attached today, I have moved it several times around, I used to feed the tank with phytoplankton from time to time.

 

[cristhiam]

Mine only cost $20

 

[reefkoi]

I have heard they are difficult at this size also, I have read this in several popular new books on reefkeeping, and tridacna clams, I'd pass and try a 3"+ to start and see how it works out.
Chris

 

[critterkeeper]

I had my own business, and eventually gave up on clams smaller than 2.5/3 inches. Way too many losses in my own tanks, and too many customers telling me the same. I quit buying/selling them...

 

[jmaneyapanda]

excessively small animals of any kind are more sensitive than more matured animals.

 

[johnfaas]

I got a 1/2 inch squamosa from a local shop and have had it for about a 30 days now and it is growing ! I think it looks good so far . First pic is when I got it , second is now.

 

[johnfaas]

here is a pic when I got it with a small snail next to it.

 

[cristhiam]

very nice! squarmies grow fast. Good luck

 

[cristhiam]

around Nov. 04

A few months back (the right one ), still attached to the same shell

 

[critterkeeper]

That looks like a maxima...