want/need to move clam.....how?

[bues0022]

I have a derasa clam that is currently attached to a small piece of shell. The problem is that the shell is terribly unstable, and I am having to move the clam frequently to sit it back up. How can I "entice" the clam to let go of the shell so i can put the clam in a more appropriate place in the tank? I can pull the entire clam out, so anything goes. What I'd *really* like to do is get the clam to attach to a piece of LR that I can place on the rockwork, and get to stay put easier. So, any ideas to make it let go?

 

[skinz78]

use a sharp knife or razorblade to cut the byssal threads as far away from the the clam as possible. Don't pull it free, this can damage the byssal organ and kill the clam. The byssal threads are like our hair and fingernails, the clam won't feel a thing when cut.

 

[bues0022]

and it will reattach easily to the new piece of rock?

 

[skinz78]

yes it shouldn't take long before it reattach's.