Snapping Surprise - Good or Bad

[Cement Mule]

This is a new tank, been up and running for about six weeks... no fish yet, mainly live rock and some CUC members. I added three small corals about five days ago. On top of the live rock, there have been what I assumed to be the remains of some type of Clam or Mussel... but today, for the first time, I realize that it is alive. I found that it was cracked open and when I shined a light on it... it closed up fast... snapped shut. I am not sure if the larger one is alive or not, but I am surprised I have not see any activity until now. Question is should I leave it or remove it... not sure if it will cause any trouble unless one of the scarlet leg crabs or snails get too close. Any advice appreciated. I took two photos, one with it open and the second with it closed.

 

[Entacmaea]

Very cool - I love random (and innocuous) hitchhikers! That bivalve is a filter feeder, so will likely not last long in the tank unless you are target feeding it with phyto or other liquid foods. If you can keep them alive - great - if not, they will die and decompose, etc. If you have hermits, they also might be attacked as they get weaker. Up to you.

Check for pearls when/if you remove them ; )

 

[Entacmaea]

PS - have some in-laws in Chattanooga - beautiful area.

 

[Cement Mule]

I will probably leave them for a little while.. they have been there six weeks and tonight was the first time I saw them open. I have about six red leg hermits... and I plan to add my first fish in about 2 weeks. I have been here five years... it is a very nice town.