looking into getting a clam: need pointers

[Kevin34]

well after deciding to scratch the copperband butterfly and angel from my stocklist I realized it would be safe to get a clam. I really like the maximas the best. Do they have any special needs? Are they completely photosythetic or do they need to be spot fed too? How big do the maximas get and are they better off in the sandbed or rockwork? Tank is a 125 with 2 250w 15K MH bulbs and has been setup since March 2008.

tank inhabitants:
sixline (in tank)
true percs (in tank)
jawfish (in QT)
midas blenny
lieutenant tang
male blue throat trigger

I might add a second tang to the list or another medium sized fish but I am not sure yet. could the blenny be a problem?

 

[Kevin34]

what should I look for when picking out a healthy clam? what are signs of an unhealthy clam? whats the best plankton to dose my tank with? would marine snow be good?

 

[WayneY]

may want to be careful adding a clam with the bluethroat.

 

[phil519]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14125318#post14125318 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Kevin34
what should I look for when picking out a healthy clam? what are signs of an unhealthy clam? whats the best plankton to dose my tank with? would marine snow be good?

Get Fatherree's latest book on giant clams. Great up to date info in my opinion.

Anyways - I will cite him as my source when I say this: Clams do not need phyto. There is enough symbiotic algae in the mantel (even more so the small ones) to survive without it. If you insist on phyto - do yourself a favor and get the kind that needs to be refrigerated and check the expiration date.

In terms of unhealthy clams - it's hard to say - but the most common problem people have are parasites in the form of pyram snails. Do yourself a favor and ask the dealer to show you the foot of the clam to make sure there are no snails there and when you get it home, take a toothbrush and give it a good scrub to make sure any snail eggs or snails get taken off.

While this test doesn't always mean a clam is ok - if it responds to movement when you put your hand over it - that's a positive sign. If it doesn't - find another.

 

[allhobbs]

Maximas are the hardest to keep they need very stable perams and good light.

 

[crvz]

I wouldnt be concerned about the bluethroat trigger, those guys are rather safe and peaceful for reef tanks. The maxima can get to about 14", and usually does better in the rocks. It's a high light clam, but I don't really consider any of the Tridacna clams to be that challenging. The crocea and maxima do have a bit more demanding requirements, but you've got plenty of light for it.

 

[troyman]

they need bright light halides are best for clams also very very clean water