Freshwater Clam

Corbicula fluminea, the Freshwater Clam, is a small but industrious bivalve that simultaneously filter-feeds from the water column and bioturbates the substrate as it moves through fine sand. It is effective at removing suspended particles and bacteria, improving water clarity in tanks prone to cloudy water. It requires fine sand, adequate flow for filter feeding, and moderate water temperatures, and is not suitable for very warm tropical setups.

Water: 15–25°C, pH 7.0–8.0, GH 6–15, KH 3–8; moderate flow for filter feeding. Tank: minimum 40 L, fine sand 5+ cm deep; avoid coarse gravel or bare bottom. Feeding: suspended micro-particles, phytoplankton, powdered invertebrate food. Behaviour: burrowing filter feeder; partially submerges in sand; slow-moving. Compatibility: safe with most fish; avoid extremely warm water and copper treatments.