percs in clam

[Sullyman]

Noticed my squamosa wasn't fully extending it's mantle the last couple of days. Looking at it today, I noticed one of my perculas inside the clam. I picked the clam up and the perc swam out. Anyone have this going on in their tank? I'll be looking for something more appropriate for my percs to live with. Not sure what to do in the mean time, pull out the perculas, or wait and see. It's obviously a large clam, wonder how much damage they could be doing to it?????????

 

[pecan2phat]

That's funny, I'm surprised that the clam just dosen't "clam" up when the perc gets that far into the shell! I have a pair of black percs that constantly hover & swim around my Squamosa, but never inside of him.
FWIW, I've heard that clowns will host a powerhead if given the chance!

 

[Sullyman]

It's a big squamie, at least 12 ", not sure why it doesn't "clam" up more than it does. I turned the clam around so I can see how often they slip inside. Thanks for your imput, hope more people have experienced this and have a idea as to what is the best action to take.

 

[hwynboy]

Between my LMB and my stubby Ocellaris it's a wonder the clam doesnt shut on them.

 

[Sullyman]

I didn't mean that the clowns were inside the shell on the mantle, I mean the clown was inside the clam's mouth, completely inside of the clam by it's gills or whatever you call it. It can't be a good thing, going to try and catch the clowns and get them in another tank until I can find a better host for them. Anyone else have a similar experience????

 

[Bayliner]

I remember someone on this site had a clown host in their clam. I will see if I can find the thread. However it was only in the shell.. What you have is down right strange... you really have to get a picture of it if you can... that would be priceless.....

Cam

 

[Bayliner]

Found it... http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=331608&highlight=clown+hosting+in+clam

The only thing I would be worried about is the clown fish trying to feed the clam and putting a large piece of food in it....

 

[Sullyman]

Cam, thanks for the info. Yes, this seems very strange to me. I couldn't believe it when the perc came swimming out of the clams intake. The clowns are new and one of them has been hidding alot, couldn't spot it anywhere, now I know why, never thought to look in my clam. My biggest fear is that the clam closes up fast, and the clown tries a fast escape, somethings going to get damaged, probably the clam. I've just spent an hour catching the clowns, they'll be spending a while in another tank until I can find something better for them to set up house in.
Wish I had a picture, but I wasn't prepared for what I saw. If they go back to the clam after they get back in that tank, I'll try and get a pic, but I really hope they stay out of my clams interior!!