should I feed a clam?

[Lucky-rc]

I have never had a clam in the past. I know very little about them other than they need massive light. (I have that coverd w/mh)
The lfs told me you have to feed them zooplankton. Is this true? I also know they get a lot of what they need from the (not sure if this is spelled right) "zooanthale" that grows on them. I change 10% of the water every week and I only have a few softies in a 310 so there is not a very big load on the system.

Lucky

 

[a4twenty]

zooplankton is to big to be utilized be a clam, if you where to feed them you would want to use phytoplankton. but as long as you have some fish that you feed regularly or some excess nutrients in the tank supplemental feeding is not necessary.

 

[Lucky-rc]

ok a4twenty,
Let me ask you this then... what are some signs that he is ok? I'm sure one would be that he is open all the time... I have had anemone in the past and could see them poop...lol (Not to be nasty) will I be able to see something similar from a clam?

 

[skinz78]

can you take a pic of the clam and post it? Yes if it's mantle is fully open is about the best sign that your clam is happy. Also if you can see good white new shell being developed under the mantle. Clams do poop from time to time but you probably won't see it often.

 

[Lucky-rc]

Ok.
Sorry I don't have a pic. to share. I have not bought him yet. I wanted to learn the care of him first. (make sure I don't kill him)

Lucky

 

[a4twenty]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11392102#post11392102 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Lucky-rc
Sorry I don't have a pic. to share. I have not bought him yet. I wanted to learn the care of him first. (make sure I don't kill him)

that's so nice to hear rather than the usual i bought this clam with no idea what his requirements are and ................

i agree with skinz78 but would like to add a good reaction to shadows. in the LFS try blocking the light with your hand, the clam should close up some in reaction to the shadow. ( possible predator to the clam )

 

[Lucky-rc]

Ok this means he is doing good and responsive.
This helps. Thanks
You all have a Merry X-mas

Lucky