Freshwater Clams

Freshwater clams are found adequately in freshwater sources like ponds, lakes and rivers. Clams are actually a general term that is used to refer to all species of bivalve mollusks like oysters and mussels. Freshwater mussels, freshwater bivalves and marine bivalves fall under the category of clams. Clams are made up of a pair of shells and have no eyes, though they do have other important functioning organs including kidneys, mouth and heart. They have an open circulatory system (body organs are surrounded by fluids that contain oxygen and other nutrients).

Freshwater clams are invertebrates that can be divides into two main families namely - Sphaeriidae (small ones) and Unionidae (large ones), which are also known as freshwater mussels. The size ranges from 1" to 2" across the shell. There are various species of freshwater clams on sale for aquariums according to the temperature and the pH level of the water. Many fish lovers are hugely fascinated by the concept of freshwater fish in their aquariums. Clams are rated high as a food item for their soft shells and delicious meat.

Freshwater clams' aquariums are very popular because they are the best kind of live filters that your aquarium can have. They help keeping the aquarium clean and fresh. They do this by getting rid of the uneaten food and other unwanted materials from the water columns. Freshwater clams are hermaphrodites and can reproduce as soon as they become four-year old.

Care to be Taken
Freshwater clams aquarium must be consisting of a quality external filter and at least inch of gravel as the clams cannot last long without the substratum. Buy a substratum that is not too rocky because such substratum will not help the clams to hide underneath it. They do great within the temperature limit of 65^o to 80^o F, which is why it is convenient to keep them in aquariums sans water heaters. Water levels must be maintained as per the requirements of the other freshwater fish that you have in the fish tank. Normally, a five gallon fish tank is sufficient for them.

Freshwater clams are a peaceful species and will never harm the other aquarium fish or the invertebrates. In normal conditions, other fish from the fish tank will not try to harm the freshwater clams due to their hard outer shells. It is best not to combine your freshwater clams with the carnivorous pet fish as they might get hurt and eaten by those big fish. Never keep any of the invertebrates including the freshwater clams inside the fish tank while you are medicating it with any antibiotic.

One must be wondering exactly what do freshwater clams eat? Well, freshwater clams are filter feeders. Filter feeders are those who survive by straining the suspended food particles from water bodies. Hence, as said earlier, they are a great filter that help the water to stay clean. You can feed the freshwater clams with finely crushed shrimp and clams pellets.

There are various types from which you can choose the best that suits your needs. I'm sure you have decided upon how many freshwater clams you want for your aquarium already!