QT Procedure for new Clams?

[reef_research]

Hello RC'ers!

I am looking to run a system for non-photsynthetic clams and bivalves very soon. However, the area where they are collected from is a large sandy "plain", filled with a many a mollusc muncher (whelks etc).

I know that the Tridacna keepers have a similar problem, particularily with Pyramellid snails. My question to you is:

What quarantine procedures do you use on new clams, in particular regards to placement in tank and the presence/absence of substrate?

Thank you,

 

[billsreef]

What species of clams?

 

[reef_research]

Sorry for the lack of latin, but stuff like quahogs, steamers (softshells), razors, cherrystones, etc.

I just want to find a way to QT them for whelks without killing them from a "bare bones" tank. I'd love to have a natural substrate from the area, but I've seen what lives in the sand around here, and I dunno if the risk is worth taking.

Any thoughts?

Thanks,

 

[billsreef]

The hardshell clams, aka Quohogs and Cherrystones depending size, can handle a bare bottom tank. Steamers and Razor clams need sand to bury in, otherwise they can't keep themselves closed and end up gaping and dieing. However, whelks are rather large and easy to find, the drills are good bit smaller and more of a worry. I'd give them a good inspection on collection, followed by about a week in QT with constant inspection for any problems. I'd also suggest obtaining what ever permits you need locally to collect them yourself. Commercially dug clams can offer suffer enough damage to cause high mortality in a culture system for several weeks after collection.

 

[reef_research]

Hmn. I had not thought of collection stresses, which I suppose is always relevant. It would be far easier to collect them on my own, but I have no idea where to even begin wading through the mess of paperwork.

Any clues? I think I'd be dealing with the U.S.D.A., correct?

 

[billsreef]

Check with your town and the states department of natural resources. I don't know about CT, but here I only need a town shellfishing permit for non commercial use and both a town and state permit for commercial use.