I need to detach and move a Maxima, how do I do it?

[Osteomata]

My 4" Maxima has become overshadowed by the Monti Cap above him, and is experiencing mantle bleaching on the covered part. I need to move him. How do I detach him from the rock without damage, or with minimum damage? He as been attached for about a year.
- Jack

 

[mbbuna]

tip the clam to one side and then take a sharp knife and cut the byssal threads as far away from the clam as you can

 

[dvmsn]

If he is not tightly attached to the rock, you can use a razor blade to cut the bysal threads connecting it to the rock. You obviously need to be very careful not to cut the foot itself. If when you touch it, if it is really sucked down, don't even try. If it is connected but you can tip it over cut just the threads where they connect to the rock.

Also, clams will often detach if they are shaded out and in a spot they don't like, so it might happen naturally.

 

[Osteomata]

OK, thanks for those tips.
- Jack