So Why do clams look better topside VS thru the glass

[ReefLEDLights]

Figured we can have a discussion on this.

would using a low iron glass affect it?

 

[gar732]

I was wondering the same thing. I don't think the low iron glass would make a difference though, my frag tank is acrylic and it the same thing, better from the top.

 

[YOUNGBLOOD]

I always wounder why

 

[Reef lvr]

Me too.. I have one clam that looks awesome through glass and nappy topdown lol

 

[Reef Keeper 18]

Same I ask myself that question everyday when I look at my deresa clam

 

[FishLipz]

Here's a link to why clams look like they do. Why Do Tridacnids Look the Way They Look? | Details | Articles | TFH Magazine

I would assume the iridophores in the mantle, reflect more light to the eye when viewed from the same angle as the light hits them.

 

[UCedumacasion]

the angle that the light reflects off of the mantle makes all the difference.

 

[skinz78]

Great discussion, I have no clue. I was selling some clams once and I had a guy come over and check them out and accuse me of doctoring the pic's because they didn't look like the clams did in person. I couldn't convince him to look top down and prove the pic's were accurate.

 

[CJO]

the angle that the light reflects off of the mantle makes all the difference.

+1

cj

 

[Scomstock]

I agree with FishLipz. There are many things in nature that seem to glow brighter or have more vibrant color when the light hits at certain angles... I'm guessing the light hitting straight on has something to do with it

 

[bangoo]

+1

cj

+ 2, same reason why blue mushroom corals look purple through glass, but really nice blue from the top view.

 

[SAZAMA]

same clam,same light