Clean up clams

Cleaner Clam - Buy One Get One FREE

Does anyone have these in their refugiums or sump? It says they reduce nitrates. Just wondering why I dont see more people with them.

 

It was a fad about 10 years ago. Problem is that if they die they can contribute to a decline in water quality.

If you want to try one or 2 go to the supermarket and buy some closed little neck clams at the sea food counter. The ones tightly closed are usually still alive.

I used to do this for my octopus that way should could eat at her leisure. They did fine in my tank and opened and filtered until eaten by the octopus but you have to make sure they are alive.

 

If they are still alive will they stay alive in a sump or refugium?

 

Yeah mine lived for a week or more until their number came up with the octopus. I imagine as long as you stir up with the detritus within reason by turkey basting the rocks and try not to run a ULNS they will do fine.

 

hmm, interesting idea cheryl, I like critters

 

A fad indeed, and also a myth. While certain clams and other bivalves do feed on dissolved organics and detritus, like any other living organism they also produce their own waste, and therefore do not contribute to improving water quality. Most, in fact, require pristine water conditions and frequent feeding for long-term survival.

 

Seems like a bad idea