Large Clam in Tank - Any Advantages/Disadvantages?

[tanglovers]

Hi All,

I have never kept very many clams, few smaller ones a while back then got rid of them prior to a tank move.

Main question, is there any advantages to having a very large clam (12-14"+) in a reef system? Any disadvantages?

I have heard they will remove nitrates but their rate is so low it does not really matter. How much bioload does a large clam add to a system?

My system is a 350 gallon full SPS system running with halides, very large skimmer, carbon, phosphate removers etc. Tank parameters are perfect. Tank calcium and alkalinity are kept in check with a very large calcium reactor.

Just wondering,

Thanks!

 

[Purple Haze]

Disadvantages:
Large clams will suck up calcium and magnesium quickly.
The real estate they will take up.
Possible fish disappearance

 

[reefnfun]

Hi There:
I have a 12" Gigas in my tank. It has added 5/8" new shell in a month and a half. It is definitely the centerpiece of the tank. I would say that it adds very little bioload but deginitely will use some calcium. My CA reactor has no problem keeping up with him. All of the SPS is growing well. You have plenty of room in that size tank, I would say go dfor it if you want one. I will make room for mine no matter how big it gets. When he slams shut you can hear it in the other room lol Take care, Mike