New (and first) clam!

[Rob Schwartz]

Hello all,

With my recent light upgrade I just took the plunge and bought my first clam. A 2.5" maxima, mostly gold, with a bit of blue tinge. I have been reading for awhile and believe that I have the basics covered but was hoping to get some tid bits of wisdom in regards to its care and feeding. What behavior do I want to look for in order to catch any problems quickly?

He is presently in the substrate, do most people recommend placing on a rock or should I just let him move if he wants to? He did come attached to an extremely small piece of rock rubble which is in the substrate with him.

Lastly, I am told that a clam that is "Gaping" is not happy, but an open one is. What is the difference between gaping vs open?

Thanks as always!

Rob

 

[Pfittttz]

describes gaping


describes some symptoms


As for placement opinions vary on whether to put the clam in the rockwork or leave it on the substrate (with a rock that it can attach to a little bit under the sand). The clams I have seen seem to do well in either place as long as there is enough light for them.

Calcium levels need to be kept pretty high.

"Giant Clams" by Daniel Knopp is recommend highly for information on clams.
Good luck to you and your clam.

 

[Rob Schwartz]

Great links!

thank you very much!

Rob

 

[Pfittttz]

Glad I could be of some help. Good luck and happy clamming