Purple Freshwater Clam (Corbicula fluminea)
Overview
The Purple Freshwater Clam is a beautiful colour variant of Corbicula fluminea, displaying shells that range from soft lavender to deep violet tones. Highly valued for its natural water-filtering ability, this clam helps improve aquarium clarity by removing suspended particles. Best suited for mature aquariums with stable conditions and a consistent supply of microscopic food.
Origin
Native to East and Southeast Asia, commonly found in slow-moving rivers, lakes, and streams with sandy or silty substrates.
Feeding
A strict filter feeder that consumes:
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Microalgae
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Phytoplankton
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Infusoria
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Fine suspended detritus
In clean or recently established aquariums, supplemental feeding (e.g., liquid phytoplankton or micronized invertebrate foods) is necessary to prevent starvation.
Tank Mates
Completely peaceful and compatible with gentle species such as:
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Tetras, rasboras, danios
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Peaceful gouramis
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Corydoras
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Shrimp
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Snails
Avoid: Loaches, puffers, crayfish, crabs, and large cichlids, which may disturb or injure clams.
Aggression
None. This is a passive filter-feeding species that spends most of its time partially burrowed.
Experience Level
Intermediate. Although hardy when settled, they require:
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Mature tanks with natural micro-food
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Excellent water quality
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Fine sand or small-grain gravel for burrowing
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Stable parameters with minimal fluctuations
Poor survival is usually due to starvation or unstable water conditions.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 70–80°F (21–27°C)
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pH: 6.8–8.0
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Hardness: 6–18 dGH
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Notes:
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Extremely sensitive to ammonia and nitrite.
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Prefers calm-to-moderate flow.
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Avoid placing in tanks with coarse or sharp substrates.
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The Purple Freshwater Clam (Corbicula fluminea) is a peaceful and uniquely coloured filter-feeding invertebrate that brings both beauty and natural water polishing to well-established aquariums.