Please ID my new clam?

[AstroMelly]

Yes I was looking back at the pictures and it does look like that is part of the foot - almost looks like he is trying to push those pieces of rock that are blocking the rear of the opening for the foot out of the way to attach. I wonder how those pieces of rock got there. The clam was sold as aqua-cultured ('cultured' to be exact which I am taking to mean aqua-cultured). I suppose at some point in it's long life it was raised on rock and the rock was cut away to free it? If you look at the picture of the base where I am holding it it appears that those are porous rock pieces and do not seem to be where the clam has tried to overgrow the byssal opening. The base is quite flat there so maybe it was cut with a band saw? I am not going to even try to remove them however.

You're right - I can see through the gap underneath to inspect - that's part of the reason I put him there although I now think I should have mounted him more horizontal to provide a more even spread of light to the mantle. Oh well, maybe he will adjust that on his own? I can also see that the softer exposed (brown) part of the (byssal foot?) which appears to be made of many threads is now extended out and is touching the rockwork so I believe he is starting to attach. Mantle was also further extended today and the shell was slightly more open so I could just see the inhalant syphon for the first time. I will of course be looking for evidence of new growth over the coming weeks.

I will not move him if I can help it. Interesting news about bristleworms - it is mentioned in Prof. Fatherree's book that they can predate on clams but I suppose there may be certain species of worms that 'specialise'.

The clam is over 5 inches, maybe 6" top to tail - it probably weighs about half a kilo - about a pound. I wish I had measured it when it was out of the tank now. I'm very keen not to interfere so I won't. Maybe I'll measure it in the tank once he is more settled.

Thanks again!

 

[DeniseAndy]

So, even larger than I thought. Was probably raised somewhere for a long time (maricultured) rather than aquacultured as I am not sure too many aquacultured maximas are yet that large being sold. My last maxima was wild and a good 4". Either way, yours is great.
They will orientate themselves for best light.

 

[AstroMelly]

Like most men I have overestimated the length. I just had a closer look and would say it’s a safe 5” but still quite hefty!

 

[OrionN]

Update please. You ave a beautiful Maxima.
I would put him on the sand if you have enough light. That way you can see him better and more beautiful mantle.
If you choose to put him on the rock, I would put him on a flat piece of rock so he can attach to the rock. As your position him, eh will either attach then tilt sideways, or else he sill not attach and then will fall of the rock structure.
Best of luck with him.

 

[AstroMelly]

Hello. I’m sorry to provide this update. Sadly our clam passed away earlier this year. We enjoyed our time with her and did all we could to try and provide the environment she needed but sadly it was not to be. We have decided not to try clams again for a while. Thanks to all for your interest and advice. She was beautiful!

 

[reefsUP2]

Hi Guys

Well we said we wouldn't then we did. Can you help us ID this beautfiul clam please? The shop just had a useful 'Cultured Clam' label!

And yes that's an aiptasia hiding in one of the upper scutes - he will be coming off tomorrow when my Joe's Juice arrives.

Also we are unashamedly new to this hobby (especially clams) - our 6ft tank is 7 months today since first fish went in - I've thrown in a couple of full tank shots for fun - any tips would be appreciated but we will start with the ID!

From what I have learnt I think Crocea, someone else on a FB group suggested Maxima but I will let the experts decide! I have not inspected the foot (I did not even know I should until yesterday - a day after he went in the tank).

Thanks to you all for your help and support so far! This truly is a wonderful forum with great people contributing - we would not be where we are now without you!

Beautiful clam I’d take care of that aptasia before it’s spreads on that smooth surface.