Vermetid snail on the side of maxima clam

[Flameangel]

I purchased this beautiful blue clam about 4 weeks ago. I did notice that it had a small "lump" on the shell of it, but I thought it was a feather duster. After having it my tank, I started noticing this spider web like stuff on the mantel. In researching this, I found a description and a picture of a vermetid snail in Sprung and Delbeeks', Reef Aquarium Volune II. I am postive that it what it is. The question is how do I get rid of it?

The books says it is harmless, and I have thought about leaving it. However, it spreads this stuff all over the mantel and I believe it keeps it from full expanind at times.

Your ideas and thoughts will be great appreciated.

Thanks,
Connie

 

[kevinpo]

My big clams have 100's of them on their shells. You can take any hard object and break it off. This will kill the snail. It is close to impossible to remove them without killing them.

HTH,
Kevin

 

[Flameangel]

When you broke the snails off the side did you worry that you might break the clam's shell? Did you use a rock to hit it with? I thought about take a needle and syringe that I use to get rid of other pest and infusing really hot water into the opening of the snail. I also thought about inpailing it with something sharp, or breaking the side of it's shell, again, I just do not want to hurt the clam.

Thanks,
Connie