Clam behavior

[chris121277]

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"

[Myka]

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]

its aprox 8-10" from the surface......and I have 4 T-5's.....should I move it higher?

[chris121277]

anybody?

[Ellie_A]

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]

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]

maybe to much current were it is?

[sphelps]

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]

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.

Originally Posted by sphelps

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.