When should I get a clam?

[peaches7412]

I have a 29 gallon biocube with 150 watt MH light that's been setup for 3-4 weeks now. I have a couple of corals, 2 clarkiis, and a clean up crew. I will be getting some cheato and a fuge light in the next week, and test kits and additives. Once I know that all the water params are perfect, when could I get a clam? Those blue maximas on liveaquaria are what I am after. Also is it ok to order online?

 

[ralph atl]

clams need consistent parems of calcium over 350, alk above 7, mag above 1200 and trates and phates at reasonable levels closer tp sps, but not quite. 150 watt should be fine, but your clam might need to be elevated, so a crocea would be better......maximas grow way too large for your tank...and require too much calcium that would be hard to maintain, imho.

 

[jef4y]

I would agree with mysterybox here.

IF you have the ability to maintain consistent water and keep the ca/alk where it needs to be (which will require constant large water changes, ca reactor or ca/alk supplementing daily), then you could consider it. But again a Maxima clam will outgrow your 29. Look at the Crocea clams. They are just as colorful and stay smaller.

 

[photokid]

i would wait at least another month but you want to stay on top of water changes if not increase them. one of the best ways to keep your levels in the ball park, but you still may need to does cal and alk.