What to look for when purchasing a clam?

[roadrashpaul]

I am hoping to pick up one (or two) clams tomorrow at my local swap. What should I look for when purchasing a clam? This will be my first clam purchase so I am trying to be prepared as best as possible. Thanks for any info.

 

[vlangel]

Check out skinz78 threads. He has been keeping clams a long time and is very knowledgeable on them. I have one that I've had 1and half years and what I looked for was a healthy looking mantle, a growth ring just under the mantle at the top of its shell. I passed my hand over the clam to watch him react, he shut momentarily and then opened right up again. I also got a clam that was about 3" as I heard their survivability is higher than clams that are smaller than that.

 

[Tahoe61]

Good coloration and extension of the mantle. No ruffling at the edges of the mantle, shells aligned .
Reacts quickly to movement and shadow.
Absence of Pyramid snails. Examine clam's shell and area around the hinge/foot.
No gaping of the inhalant or exhalant siphons.

 

[roadrashpaul]

Thanks guys. I have read most of Skinz sticky thread here as well as some other literature on the web. Hope to pick out a good one tomorrow.

 

[skinz78]

Be sure to post pic's when you get them!

 

[Zuska]

also toss your hand over the light to see if they close up right away. make sure they are healthy before purchase