Do pyramid snails live without a clam?

Discussion in 'Clams' started by Ballgame, Aug 31, 2015.

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  1. Ballgame

    Ballgame Millepora

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    A year ago lost a clam to pyramid snails. Fast forward just got a nice 5" maxima. After couple weeks found about 12 pyramid snails on it during standard tank cleaning. Got all snails off but literally next day came to find nothing but the shell. Was healthily and looked great when I found snails. So my question is do the snails die without a clam? I trust the guy I get frags/clams from. He scrubs and cleans with a magnifying glass. We all know it's impossible to be pest free. So I either already had them in my tank over that year or were on clam when I got it. Looking forward I'd like to get another clam. But not if I'm infested with these snails forever. Could get a six line but you understand my question. Thanks.
     
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  3. Va Reef

    Va Reef Giant Squid

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    I believe pyramid snails do not solely prey on clams, meaning that they can in theory survive without a clam. However, I'd be more inclined to say they came from the source. As you said, nothing is 100% pest free. I would get a wrasse that takes care of them just in case.
     
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  4. Corailline

    Corailline Super Moderator

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    It is a dry heat, yeah right !
    They will feed on snail, the larger the better, they are predatory to the larger snail such as turbos......Wrasses sleep at night when Pyramids are active. I have gone that route and it's fruitless.
     
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  5. Ballgame

    Ballgame Millepora

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    Thanks. Do you think they stay in the tank? Would like to get another clam but not if I'm infested
     
  6. Corailline

    Corailline Super Moderator

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    It is a dry heat, yeah right !
    No I would not get another clam until you're sure they are gone. I have played the pyramid snail game more times than I like to admit. They can stay in your tank for quite awhile feeding off your snails.
     
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