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Gemmy

Great Starter Clam

Pros: One of the hardier clams
Cons: Easily picked on by herbivorous fish
Review on:
Value
Gemmy’s Rating

Purchase Date: August 2010

Purchase Price: $29.99


Community Rating:
(3 reviews)

I highly recommend this as a hobbyist's first clam. These clams hardier than other varieties that are available. They prefer to be kept on a sandy substrate, and need strong lighting. I highly recommend T5's or metal halides. I also recommend purchasing a clam that is 3+ inches, since they have a much better survival rate than smaller clams. They are filter feeders, and can help aid in nitrate removal. Derasa's also require calcium levels to be within ideal measures. Also, be cautious when placing in a tank with herbivorous fish (tangs, angels, etc). These fish can sometimes nip at the clam, which can cause undue stress.

5 people found this review useful

Comments (6)

thanks i might see about getting one for my reef tank (set up for 3 months)
thanks i might get one for my reef tank (been set up 3 months) one question
do they eat algae or nitrates or anything like that
I would wait before getting one since your tank is fairly new, keep in mind if over 3 inches, they are filter feeders and feed off the the nutrients in your tank, under 3 inches your would have to hand feed them, I have one as well as a Hippopus clam..both well over 3 inches, and my tank has been up and running now for 5 years...I do dose daily with DT's and 3 times a week marine snow, due to my corals that I have...Keep that in mind otherwise hand feeding would be a must..
How deep a sand bed does it require? Also, how big do they end up getting?
I would recommend about 2-3" of sand for them and they can get up to 24". Now, it does take them awhile to get that big.
Great Choice, I have had it quite a while.
miracle mineral solution
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