gaping... how do you know?

[shy07guy]

I am looking to get my first clam for my tank that has been up for 8 months. I am still researching what it takes but I have become stumped on the term gaping. I can not tell what is a normal sized opening and what is too much. I have looked at all the clams at the LFS and at this point I would not be able to tell. They react to the shadow of my hand passing over an dall have their mantel extended over the lip of the shell. If there is anything else that can help me choose a healthy one please let me know. I am looking to get a maxima or cocrea. I have a 60gal tank with 260w pc (all actinic) and 2 250w 10K XM bulbs. I a thinking about getting the clam in the next few months. I dose the tank every other day with 1/2 oz of DT's now and could dose more if the clam needs it. Alk stays about 8 cal is at 450 to 480. I have a few LPS as well as some GSP, Zoas, rics, and xenia in the tank along wit my only current fish (red firefish) oh and snails and hermits and 5 shrimp. Any help would be great I would like to have a few clams eventually but I am very patient with this hobby and dont want to rush anyhting if there is anything else I need to know or get before the clam let me know. Thanks for the help
Derek

 

[shy07guy]

anyone...?

 

[ckhorne]

Hmm- it's hard to explain gaping without actually showing it in person- you'll just know. Basically, the clam will not be able to extract its mantle well or at all. On maxima's and crocea's it's a little easier to tell because they typically keep a smaller gap between the shells. Derasa's and the rest are a little more difficult.

Perhaps the best test is the one you've already mentioned - if you pass your hand over the clam and it doesn't contract fast, then it's probably not healthy, even if it's not gaping. Note that some clams don't contract as much as others- it may require gently touching the mantle (either with your finger or something else not sharp) or picking up the clam. If the clam doesn't pull it's mantle behind the shell or clam up (pun intended), don't get it.

Be careful with those shrimp, though- some can get a taste for clam one night and you'll be $100 poorer the next morning. Other than that, it looks like your tank is set and ready to go for clams.

 

[CTN1983]

I have a crocea, two maximas, and two deresa.

I've had my crocea for a while now, it tends to gap alot...but from what I read, its a common behavior. My two maximas don't gap as much...but they do once in a while.

Also be sure to check the clam's mantle extension (no pinching), check for any predator snails, and the clam's reaction to shadows.

Well Good Luck finding a healthy clam!

BTW, Hi guys, First post

 

[shy07guy]

Thanks for the help guys still not sure about the gaping I think in person is the only to really learn it. Or if anyone has pics that would be helpful too maybe. Thanks again
Derek