CLAM EMERGENCY

[Luno]

While trying to glue an acro back down that came loose I accidentally dropped 2 part epoxy which floated over inside the clam.

The clam then closed up on the epoxy and now I cannot even pry him open to remove the epoxy.

How much force can I use to pry him open? I'm concerned if the epoxy hardens it will do damage to the mantle and/or literally glue him closed

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

What epoxy was it?

I’d try to be cool and let it open up. Then see if you can shake it out or blow it off.

I wouldn’t force it. I wouldn’t expect the glue to be that sticky like super glue.

 

[Luno]

It's epoxy selleys aqua clear mixed with some super glue gel

 

[Luno]

I'm just concerned it will legit glue him shut

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

Ah darn. Yea the super glue can stick to the flesh probably. I don’t think it will be glued shut though.

It may stick and mess with it though. Probably very irritating.
Honestly I’ve never seen this happen.


Let’s #reefsquad to see if there’s other ideas.

 

[Luno]

Thanks man, yeah I have no idea what to do. The clam is also attached to a large rock which makes it difficult to remove him aswell.

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

Dang. Yea eyes peeled for it to open up.
I’m really surprised it hasn’t spit it out. That’s got to taste awful.

 

[Luno]

It's trying to spit it out but doesn't get it out as it's a reasonable sized chunk of epoxy and the. Just closes up in defense again

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

Get a finger or two in there if you can to stop it from closing.

Just be gentle as ya can.
Maybe some hemostats to remove the thing if you have a pair.

 

[Luno]

I've legit tried with tweezers to grab it, and forceps to keep him open and he's stronger than you think! To the point where I'm getting concerned I'm going to cause damage with the amount of force required

 

[Luno]

Good news is it is starting to open slightly so definitely not glued shut but every attempt to remove clam shuts again. I think I'm in the clear of my biggest worry of accidentally glueing him shut. Now just gotta get the right timing to remove it

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

Ah geeeez.
Is there somthing it can bite down on? Tube or cylinder of something ?

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

Good news is it is starting to open slightly so definitely not glued shut but every attempt to remove clam shuts again. I think I'm in the clear of my biggest worry of accidentally glueing him shut. Now just gotta get the right timing to remove it

Lol. WHEW!

 

[dbl]

I too would think it expell it eventually. My concern would be damaging it trying to pry it open or grabbing the piece with tweezers or anything else. From your comments, it's not letting you anyway. I would let it alone for a bit and see if it spits it out.

 

[Luno]

I too would think it expell it eventually. My concern would be damaging it trying to pry it open or grabbing the piece with tweezers or anything else. From your comments, it's not letting you anyway. I would let it alone for a bit and see if it spits it out.

I think so now too. My biggest concern was accidentally glueing him shut. Now I know that's not the case hopefully he will expel it on his own. Scary first 30 minutes though wondering if I've just killed my clam by being a little to careless!!

 

[Luno]

Also a big thanks to you both especially salty for your input and help!

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

You’re totally welcome!

 

[Luno]

Success he didn't spit it out but did open long enough for me to grab it by hand and remove it. Before he closed again. Mantle is looking pretty sad where it was lodged. Not quiet opening properly either and gapping a bit but that's to be expected will keep an eye on it but shouldn't be an issue I'm hoping

 

[Nart]

So glad to hear!!
I hate freaking accidents with super glue gel. I've had my fair share.

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

Excellent news!