anyone have a dedicated clam tank?

[jmh2536]

I've been thinking of using my old 40 gallon tank and making it a clam tank. I have a 400 watt ballast that I would use to light the tank and a aquac remora skimmer for filtration. My question is though, I dont want to buy a bunch of live rock for the tank, so is there a good filter that would be a good substitute for LR for biological filtration. And if anyone has any expierience with clam-only tanks, I would be appreciative any advice.

[reefrunner69]

Simply use a DSB and have a very light fish load. The clams themselves will metabolize some of the ammonia, using it as a food source, and the DSB should be able to handle the rest. For my taste...I would add a couple or three large to medium pieces of LR to place some of the clams on so they all aren't sitting in the sand, kinda give it some perspective.

[jmh2536]

another question...i'm pretty sure that clams take in alot of calcium...so what do you think would be the best way to add calcium to the tank without spending a fortune(im on a tight budget)

[reefrunner69]

Either Kalkwasser...or one of the two part additives like B-Ionic.

[jmh2536]

heres my last question......i've seen alot of sands on the market and really dont know which one is best...what would you reccomend?

[reefrunner69]

If you can find it, go with Southdown Tropical Playsand, it is also marketed under the name Old Castle. Look at Home Depot.

[jmh2536]

i've already been on that adventure......

[fishfreek]

For reference you might also want to pickup the book "Giant Clams". I read it and found it a wonderful reference for these wonderful creatures.