Beginner clam question(dont have one yet)

Discussion in 'Clams' started by tank9127, Jan 4, 2014.

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  1. tank9127

    tank9127 Astrea Snail

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    I have a biocube 29, i upgraded my lights to 2-12k/blue, 1-blue mag panorama pros a few days back. My water para's are good(weekly water changes and test) are these lights i have suitable for owning clams? im looking at maybe a maxima but dont want to get over my head.
     
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  3. Va Reef

    Va Reef Giant Squid

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    Your lights look good. Tahitian maxima's tend to be the hardiest IMO. Remember in a smaller tank, once they get bigger they suck up ALOT of calcium and magnesium so you will probably have to dose. Try to get one that is over 2" as your odds of success will be greatly increased IMO.

    I'd check out Mikejrice's thread on clam myths.
     
  4. tank9127

    tank9127 Astrea Snail

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    i really appreciate the response and help. thank you.
     
  5. Va Reef

    Va Reef Giant Squid

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    no problem, I used to keep a maxima in my BioCube 14, but lost it when my little sister decided to "help" feed the tank.

    Maxima clams have to be one of my favorite creatures in this hobby.

    Good luck to you
     
  6. tank9127

    tank9127 Astrea Snail

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    gees thats too bad. what did you look for in a Maxima clam as far as health? and as far as water treatment? i really do nothing to my tank besides 20% water changes every 7-10 days and add some fuel for reefs chems.
     
  7. Va Reef

    Va Reef Giant Squid

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    good mantle extension, good byssal threads, no aiptasia on the shell, generally clams over 2" are easier to take care of.

    I'd recommend getting test kits for Magnesium, Calcium, and Alkalinity, and then whatever your LFS has to dose for the three.
     
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  9. tank9127

    tank9127 Astrea Snail

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    cool, thanks again.
     
  10. BoB123

    BoB123 Spaghetti Worm

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    In all honesty clams aren't hard at all to keep, they just need high light which you have. I have a Derasa.
     
  11. DSC reef

    DSC reef Giant Squid

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    High light and good params are a must. I wouldn't get one until you can test calcium, mag and alk. Larger clams tend to be hardier but never a guarantee. My deresa clams were the fastest growing and hardy. Squamosa and maxima are good choices too. I had 7 clams at one point and I had to dose calcium every day.
     
  12. BoB123

    BoB123 Spaghetti Worm

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    Yeah calcium, not really an issue for me because i have a full SPS tank. I just got used to my tanks needs.:)