Odd snail on clam shell - help id plz

[impur]

I just noticed this odd looking snail-type thing attached to my clams shell. It is normally hidden by the clams mantle. It lives in a hard C shaped shell attached to the clams shell so it doesn't move. I just finished a WC and noticed it here are a few pics. Any ideas of what it is and if i should remove it?

 

[impur]

Anyone?

 

[CitCat21]

I can't very much of anything can you get a clearer pic.

 

[dvmsn]

Im sorry I can't tell either

 

[cj_basser]

I've got one of those things on my clam shell as well. So far i havn't noticed it doing anything to my clam. I would say its safe.

 

[impur]

Thanks cj, i figured as much since the clam has always done great. I'll see if i can get a better pic tonight just for a positive ID.

 

[manderx]

it's a vermetid snail. the big ones like that aren't a problem, but small red/dark ones reproduce like crazy and are a real nuisance.

 

[impur]

Thanks manderx! I have lots of those small ones so i know what you mean, they are everywhere! I hate the mucus string they let out to catch food as it attaches to corals and anything close to them.