Unusual deviation in clam mantle

[Andy]

Hi guys

My 8" deresa clam has been acting a bit strange lately. On occasion, I have noticed that it gapes for a few minutes at a time and I have also noticed what appears to be a deviation in the edge of the incurrent syphon. I am attaching a pic for reference. Anyone have any idea what might be causing this. Is this a sign of some sort of illness or pest.

Thanks.


http://reefmania.homestead.com/IMGP9585.JPG

[mortigas]

Andy, can it be pinched mantle disease? Perhaps this can help
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2006-09/jf/index.php

Good Luck!

[Andy]

I always though pinched mantle disease affects the outer edges of the mantle, not the syphons. The outer edges of this clam's mantle is fully extended. Anyone else.

[D.Style]

Hey Andy,

How long has it been doing the "gaping for a minute" thing?
My deresa started gaping for a bit in the beginnign of the summer when the temperature got warmer. It would gape a little, and then after a minute or two, it would contract and open back to normal.

It stopped after a week, i never figured out why it did it.

I'm not sure about the intake though, it doesn't look completely off to me, but I'm no clam expert!

[Darryl_V]

I have witnessed my clams doing odd things for a day or two also. My guess is that given some time your clam will return to normal.

Keep us updated though andy.

[lotus02]

Derasas are one of the hardiest clams. Some clams appear to gape when filtering for food. Be sure you have no inhabitants irritating it. Watch your shrimp sometimes they can pester a clam to its death. Good luck and keep us posted.