Would you expect a clam to open its mouth after slight change in flow pattern?

[AndyB]

Hi,

I've had the attached Maxima clam for a few years now but rather strangely after changing the configuration on my MP40's its had its mouth open for a longer duration than I've previously seen during the course of the day (ie most of the day); mantle though is extended and it looks happy enough to me.

I was wondering if clams typically do this when flow patterns change? Should I be concerned and possibly change the configuration back?

After reviewing other threads I can see new shell growth, though will probably need to get a better than the ones below to show in this thread.

Thoughts/feedback would be appreciated.

Note:

- The MP40 configuration has not changed much, the mantle isn't moving at all.
- Only change made was to increase ReefCrest power by 5%
- Will be testing parameters shortly

 

[RobZilla04]

If it is open more/longer than previously that is a good sign. Likely the increased flow is keeping nutrient particulates in the water column longer which the clam is feeding on.

 

[AndyB]

Thanks for the reply Rob, that makes sense.

Will keep an eye on it and not touch flow config yet.

 

[DSC reef]

An open incurrent siphon is not a bad thing and like mentioned above, it's taking in more water. The clam looks great. Look to be a tridacna derasa though. As long as the clam is not getting blasted to where its closing up then I'd leave it be.

 

[pickupman66]

I agree. this looks more like a derasa due to the open width, pattern and shell. that said, it looks quite pleased to me.

 

[hotashes]

Hi,

I've had the attached Maxima clam for a few years now but rather strangely after changing the configuration on my MP40's its had its mouth open for a longer duration than I've previously seen during the course of the day (ie most of the day); mantle though is extended and it looks happy enough to me.

I was wondering if clams typically do this when flow patterns change? Should I be concerned and possibly change the configuration back?

After reviewing other threads I can see new shell growth, though will probably need to get a better than the ones below to show in this thread.

Thoughts/feedback would be appreciated.

Note:

- The MP40 configuration has not changed much, the mantle isn't moving at all.
- Only change made was to increase ReefCrest power by 5%
- Will be testing parameters shortly

Hiya Andy, if we are looking at the clam with blue rim on mantle and smooth shell then that’s a Tridacna Derasa my friend. The mouth could certainly be a little open as it’s filtering the water that little more as you’ve upped the flow a little. As long as the flow isn’t direct hitting the clam I would suggest all is normal.

Maybe @DSC reef or @jda can chime in

A.

 

[Retro Reefer]

Agree with others it’s a derasa.. mine will react to flow changes similarly, it’s probably getting less flow than before. Your clam looks happy and healthy from the pictures.

 

[Dan I]

Looks like a good happy clam. You are good. My clam did the same when I readjusted my circulation pumps.

 

[AndyB]

Ah cool, awesome .... learn something new everyday ... great to hear that this is normal behaviour and appreciate the correction on what type it actually is.

I've got a second clam which I thought was a Derasa, probably should post this one too just in-case I've had that one wrong as-well.

 

[DSC reef]

You have 2 really nice derasa clams. Well done andy

 

[AndyB]

Thanks everyone for confirming that my clam is reacting normally to the change in flow ,,, great to get a second opinion on their health, certainly made me happier today knowing this.