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View Full Version : Clam behavior

chris121277
10-14-2009, 11:49 PM
I've had this clam for about 2 months now, it seems happy (open everyday and has attached him self to the rock that he's on) but I'm curios about how far out it extends its mantle.

Is this normal? all the pic's I've seen of clams seem to just come out of there shell, mine is extended apox 1 1/2"-2"
http://i461.photobucket.com/albums/qq339/chris121277/reef%20tank/PA140056.jpg
Myka
10-14-2009, 11:57 PM
It looks like your clam wants more light. What type of lights do you have? How far is the clam from the water surface?
chris121277
10-15-2009, 12:18 AM
its aprox 8-10" from the surface......and I have 4 T-5's.....should I move it higher?
chris121277
10-16-2009, 11:00 PM
anybody?
Ellie_A
10-16-2009, 11:59 PM
Is it wedged between the rocks? Almost looks like it can't open its shell wide enough to get the light it wants so it putting its mantle further out.
chris121277
10-17-2009, 12:01 AM
no....it's actually on a sort of flat rock, and it has attached it's self there so I can't even move it.
chris121277
10-17-2009, 12:02 AM
maybe to much current were it is?
sphelps
10-17-2009, 12:33 AM
an over extended mantle is a common sign that the clam isn't getting enough light so you could move it a little higher if you'd like, however I've kept claims in at 15" down with 4 T5 bulbs for light with no problems. Also some of my clams have always usually showed fully extended mantles and are doing fine.
chris121277
10-17-2009, 02:52 PM
Good to hear....that at least puts my mind at ease. I'm planning on re-doing some of the rock work today and I'm going to put him a little lower in the tank.

an over extended mantle is a common sign that the clam isn't getting enough light so you could move it a little higher if you'd like, however I've kept claims in at 15" down with 4 T5 bulbs for light with no problems. Also some of my clams have always usually showed fully extended mantles and are doing fine.