How to unfoot a clam

[jawwad2004]

I decided to add a new layer of sand and did not realize that my clam would clamp its foot to a large rock on the base of the tank (thus burying it alive). I'm afraid to yank it, for fear of killing it. Is there any way to gently get a clam to loosen its foot so I can place him on top of the new substrate?

 

[edd]

i read on line that you can cut it with a scalpel if you can get it between clam and rock

 

[dubs]

if u can turn the rock on the side the clam will fall of after some time that what i did to unfoot one of mine

 

[tosiek]

You can try to cut the threads as close to the rock as possible that attach it to the rock using a razor blade or scalpel. The problem with this is trying to pull the clam to the side to see and be able to cut the strands can damage the byssal gland and your clam might not be able to attach again and/or die so be careful. This should be a last resort kinda thing by cutting the byssal gland threads.

Before doing this you should put the rock in a way so the clam is uncomfortable. It will let go, or a powerhead in its direction. The next day it should be unattached. If it doesn't let go in a day or two you can cut the byssal gland threads.