20g Clam Question

Underthereef101

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Starting to consider a clam for my 20g.
Been doing a ton of research and planning. But I have some concerns, and a silly question.

Just would like to know if anyone has any tips or recommendations for anything regarding them.

Here’s the silly question:
I have a 20g, with a AI Prime HD over it.
The tank is currently 1 month old... However, (now this is the big however) I used the same water and same live rock from my 90g which was about matured at the time.

Would it still be considered too “new” or too risky? I’ve had massive success with this tank, and have had a lot of growth with my corals that I transferred which are mainly LPS corals, with a couple of SPS

I keep my tank at:
Salinity: 1.026
Temp: 78~79•f
[Average reef tank perms]
I also am currently using Fritz Pro salt instead of Red Sea Pro.

Would appreciate no bashing, no mean comments, and only honesty. I’m aware you guys in the community (most of you) have been in this hobby much longer than myself, so it’s you guys who will put the nail in the coffin.

I’m also very confident with this tank, and I obviously would understand my risks.

Thank you guys!
 
I have two 25g tanks with more than a dozen of clams under 250w HM. Clams are not sensitive to water quality, but very picky in light. So I'm not sure if AI could give you long-term success. Another important thing is getting a heathy clam from reputable supplier at the beginning, which will boost your confidence.
 
I have two 25g tanks with more than a dozen of clams under 250w HM. Clams are not sensitive to water quality, but very picky in light. So I'm not sure if AI could give you long-term success. Another important thing is getting a heathy clam from reputable supplier at the beginning, which will boost your confidence.

Where did you get your clams? I've tried LiveAquaria Divers Den twice, but both died within a couple weeks both times [emoji853] I really, really, really want a Clam!
 
With the rock and water coming from an established system i think u will b fine...and i try to buy clams local so i can inspect for parasites and pm before i buy.
 
Where did you get your clams? I've tried LiveAquaria Divers Den twice, but both died within a couple weeks both times [emoji853] I really, really, really want a Clam!

Sorry for the loss but I'm actually not in USA. Maybe you could try lfs or other hobbyist.
 
May be a bit early even with reuse. Since you reused water and rock, I would let your parameters speak for where your tank is with maturity.

I am experimenting with a 7 gal currently with great success so a 20g is certainly accomplishable. Bright light, lots of indirect flow, and stable parameters have been key.

No experience with the prime but it looks like from published par charts that you would have to have it really close to the surface and most types of clams dead center underneath. Going to need 250+ par for long term success with most clams.
 
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IMO one month is not enough time for your system to stabilize even if the rock and water has come from another system.. I would give it a little more time before introducing a clam. For what it’s worth derasas make good starter clams, they are a little easier to keep and need less light to thrive.
 
Thanks everyone for the reply, I forgot to change up some of what I said as I just copy and pasted from a FB post I posted a while ago. I just had again mixed comments.

Currently my tank is growing coralline like no other, and has been very stable with such a little bioload hence the reason why I’m asking.

I’ve not bought a clam yet, just doing research :) so don’t worry. I’m also located in Canada, and I have a local LFS that’s had some clams for a few months now.

And again here mixed results haha, I’m wondering if I just try my luck with a cheap clam and see how things go. I understand they need high light and I will do what I can for the clam if I do end up getting one.

Still doing research, still very very conflicted as lots of people tell me to try and lots of people say to wait haha. But it’s to each their own, and reading your own rank has always been the key to success.

Going to wait to see what others here say. Either way if I do end up getting one, it’s going to be a cheap derasas or squamosa will be my first choice.
 

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