Caribbean marine fish supplier & Marshall Island Clam Supplier – 04/22/07
Hi All
We are a company of consolidators Based in the UK. We have been trying for quite some time to establish a good supplier of Caribbean Marine fish and inverts including Ricordia and Zooanthid's.
<Mmmm... not easy to find... you might want to look for a "deal" with a culturist here... Ricordeas are not to be had out of much of the TWA and the Zoanthids... too large, too "stuck on" natural substrates to collect economically... Maybe check with Dick Perrin/Tropicorium...>
Also a good supplier of all Species of Tridacna clams from a reputable source from the Marshall Islands.
<Mmm, "no room at the inn" here... The supply is all spoken for... tied up... as far as I'm aware>
We are asked on a daily Basis by our customers for these supplies, But at this time we have been helpless to get the Specific item's in any great quantity to satisfy our customer's requirements.
<Well... perhaps a go out to these areas yourself... attending the larger trade shows (Aquarama in Sing... out to China in Nov... the Interzoo next year in May...) with folks who know... and will introduce you (as fellow attendees... the people in the collecting and Tridacnid culture biz will not be vendors...>
We do have a source for some of these items, But we are going through another Transhipper in the US and at this time only get small quantities of the Caribbean Fish and inverts. With very small amounts of Ricordia and Zooanthids.  No'where near the amounts that are customers require.
Your help on Both these subjects would most certainly be appreciated.  I thank you for your time and are hopeful that you can guide me in the right direction.
Regards
Barry Swales.    MD. BK. Aquatics. England.
<Much to relate... Are you a member of the OFI? The FTFFA? I would be asking the admin. of these groups, their constituents for help here... Do use the correct spelling of the names of the organisms you're seeking... Bob Fenner>

Clam importation  12/30/06
Hello Mr. Fenner,
<Robert>
I would like  to set up a small clam facility here in Canada for commercial purposes and I would appreciate if you  can guide me to a some clam exporters.
Thank you
Robert Jones
<Mmm... well... how to begin another one of these conversations...? Let's see... how large a facility, business do you intend... initially? How many pieces (individuals referred to as such in the trade), boxes per shipment can/will you handle... How many of what size Tridacnids do you believe you'll be able to move? I strongly encourage you to try "walking" before "running" here... Buying from "good" wholesalers... and re-selling locally (or nationally in Canada) before trying transshipping, buying more directly from "farms" (there is a slippery scale of wild-collectors to actual culturists in/out of the sea...). I would contact the bigger players in and about Los Angeles here/now. Sea Dwelling Creatures (Eric Cohen there), Pacific Aqua Farms (Dave Palmer there), Quality Marine (Robert Macias there)... these companies are listed in industry Buyer's Guides... and have websites. Bob Fenner>

Re: Clam importation   12/31/06
Hello Bob,
Thanks for the prompt  reply...
<Welcome>
Let's see... how large a facility, business do you intend... initially? >>I want to start slowly such as in my basement with 3-4  tanks  and increase to a larger facility down the road.
<Ah, good approach>
How many pieces (individuals referred to as such in the trade), boxes per shipment can/will you handle...>> I would like to start with 150 - 200 / 2-3 "clams.
<Wow... this is actually a bunch... I take it you have industry experience... have developed something in the way of a written business and marketing plan... Will you sell over, through the Net? Have your URL ready to go?>
Buying from "good" wholesalers... and re-selling locally (or nationally in Canada) before trying transshipping,>> That's what I want to do re-sell in Canada.
What else should I be aware of in this business ?
<Heeeeeee! Sorry... just the way I'm reading this cracks me up... Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/AqBizSubWebIndex/Biz%20Index/Biz%20index.htm
Yes... the entire Aquatics Business Subweb... Bob Fenner>
Thank you
Robert Jones

Tridacna clams... aquaculture   12/16/06
Hi Bob,
I am trying to breed Tridacna clams in my farm in Vietnam. Do you help me the Tridacna clam's breeding process, or where I can have it.
Best Regard,
Trung
<Mmm, there are "standard works" in this field... Look for the names Gerald Heslinga, James Fatherree... and folks who will travel/consult with you on site re... do you intend to make this an intensive (on land) operation, or more extensive... growing out your stock in the sea? If you'd like, we can discuss various aspects of this process here... through a course of emails. Bob Fenner>

Re: Tridacna clams   12/17/06
Thanks Bob, I have been tried on land farm to breed and growing clam, I am happy to have your advice.
<So... how would you like to proceed? You're familiar with the popular literature already? You have facilities for housing broodstock? On to their selection? BobF>

Re: Tridacna clams... ongoing      12/18/06
Bob,
<Trung>
Yes, I have done it now on my land farm and sea farm also. I hope to have more experience to feed the baby clam right way. It may be different with clam in USA. May you help me?
Best Regards,
Trung
<Yes... but, in what way/s? What are you looking for specifically? Bob Fenner>

Thomas Lage clam exporter   03/07/06
Dear Bob.
<Ryan>
My name is Ryan Lalande Importer in Ontario Canada. I am in a situation and i was looking for some expert advise. This is a clam exporter known as
Thomas Lage. i am sure you know him, he is in Germany and exports clams ( Australian cultured clams i believe) out of Germany.
needless to say i sent him 4000 dollars for a clam shipment, and now have lost contact with him. it has been 7 days with no email. i just decided to
call him today and no answer. its is around 4.30 - 5 in Germany right now so many he shop is closed for the day.
<Maybe... or on travel>
my question to you is, have you ever heard of this problem occurring before with this Thomas Lage. i have heard of instances where he has not payed his
suppliers for whatever reason, however i didn't think he had any problems with his buying customers.
needless to say i am rather worried and looking for any  information anyone might have. also if you happen to have any information about legal ways to
deal with this problem that would be fantastic. And finally if you happen to have any information regarding other good sources to import clams from other
then Vietnam i would appreciate it.
thank you very much for you time
Ryan Lalande
Where's The Reef? Inc
<I'm unfamiliar with the company... But have fine friends that are quite familiar with the tridacnid trade. Am asking Eric Cohen of Sea Dwelling Creatures, Barry Neigut of Clams Direct and James Fatherree who is about finishing an aquarium book on the family if they have input here. If they don't respond to you directly, do please write me back. Bob Fenner>

Re: Thomas Lage clam exporter   03/07/06
Hey guys....
Ryan,
I think you are safe with Thomas.  We have received two or three  shipments from him in the recent past and all worked out fine.
I know there are very few clams available and that maybe the issue.
Keep me posted...I can give you other contacts for him if you don't have   them.  What email do you have for him?
Best regards to all....Hi Martin! Hi Barry....Hi James, Hi Bob!
Eric
<Thanks much for this super-timely response Eric. Hello to Scotter and Robert (yer dad). BobF>

Re: Thomas Lage clam exporter   03/07/06
Bob,
Did you see how fast the guy replied to the Canada guy after I emailed  him?  
It was like lighting!
<Obviously anxious... or as in Riddick and his Chronicles, "skittish">
Thanks for the contacts....miss you man!
Eric
<Have gots to get up and see you... Do you have time off coming? Are you going to Interzoo in May? BobF>
I will be in Germany baby!  Let's have a brew or two!
Eric
<Man! Am hoping Di will capitulate and go with me... We "lost" our rooms at the Romantik... Are you staying in Old Nurnberg/Nuremberg? Any rooms available now? BobF>

Clam source...   2/10/06
Dear Sir
I looking for a address of Tridacna farms in marshal island. for derasa -maxima-squamosa and crocea .I want import approximately 1000 pc.s per month in Europe. Thanks a lot for your time
Best regards
David
<... Are you a member of OFI? The farms I am familiar with are not seeking new customers. Bob Fenner>
Yes we are member of OFI the name of our company is N'guyen international-tropic international our mail is info@tropic-nguyen.com and we are wholesaler and transhipper.
David
<I see... please put the terms: "Tridacna farms in Marshall islands" in Google... Bob Fenner>

Giant Clam Biz  9/7/05
Ia Orana  Bob,
<Good health to you>
Getting back to you about my Tridacna import project for Europe: After trying to deal with Jennifer from Belau Aquaculture who suddenly
stopped communicating with me after having shown a lot of interest, I got in touch with Warren Ching in Pohnpei who also seemed very motivated
and who even mailed us some info & pictures of his facilities over there; after a month without a word from him, I contacted Tom Bowling,
the new manager for MIMF / Ultraclams in the Marshall Islands, who tells me he is ready to send us export CITES with which we can finally
attempt to get import CITES for France; if this is the case, I'll be planning a trip to the Marshalls to visit him very shortly.
<Good>
Any suggestions you might have on this project and/or on MIMF/Ultraclams in the Marshall Islands are more than welcome.
<Don't have much to say, but am cc'ing Barry Neigut and James Fatherree here for their input>
I have another question for you: Do you know anything about Sea of Cortez endemic species & suppliers ?
<Was actually one of these over time past... as far as I'm aware there is currently no one doing collecting, ex/importing from this vast area... more government than reality>
Best regards,
Patrick E. Corsi
International Sales Manager
Aquatic Tranship
2208 route de Grasse
06600 Antibes
France
Tel. 04 93 74 50 02
Fax 04 93 74 50 32
Email : patrick.aquatictranship@wanadoo.fr
<Bob Fenner>

Shipping Clams and Euphyllia Propagation  8/31/05
Hello Crew!
<Fred>
You've been helpful with my previous questions, and I'm hoping you may have some insights or thoughts on a couple of quandaries that are pestering me tonight!
I've been shipping out clams lately via 2-day shipments (with 100% success rates thus far!...knock on wood), and a recent "issue" got me thinking.
Generally these are clams in the 3-4" range that I ship out in small 4x8" Kordon breathing bags. I would guess there's maybe a cup of water in each one. I'm sure you're familiar with the bags, so I won't go into detail.
<Do know this Novalek product>
Though every one has made it just fine, the most recent shipment arrived in a broken bag and mostly dry, though there was still moisture in the bag due to packing with a lot of newspaper as well. This clam was also just fine upon arrival.
<Are very tough animals>
This got me thinking: since the clams retain water while they're closed up, would it make sense (or not?) to perhaps wrap a rubber band around the clam
so it would only be able to open up a little?
<Mmm, I would not do this>
The last clam that broke through the bag has a couple of sharp edges on its shell, and I'm sure it was the clam opening up quickly in transit that popped the bag.
<Or just it rolling about>
I'm not sure how long a clam can remain closed...I would assume there would be some sort of breathing activity necessary?
<Yes>
I wouldn't want to stop this during shipment (obviously). Your thoughts? Is it a worthwhile method to attempt??
<Not IMO>
My second question is about Euphyllia propagation. We have two corals (E. paradivisa and E. glabrescens) in our 24g nano-cube that continuously form buds around the base of the larger polyps. They eventually float away never to be seen again...
<?>
but I'm starting to feel guilty about letting all these polyps go to waste!
<I don't think these are Euphyllia polyps>
What would be the proper way to collect and mount these? There is no skeleton on any of them that I can tell, so I'm not sure if they would glue down very well. My other though is some netting over a simple plug of some sort. I consulted Anthony's book but wasn't able to find any specific information on them.
<I will cc him here re>
The frogspawn alone puts out 6-8 polyps a week or so, and I think these would be excellent candidate for aquaculture if I can
figure out a method to save and grow them. Looking for a little insight on the subject if you can provide any.
Once again, many thanks!
Fred
<Bob Fenner>

Shipping Clams and Euphyllia Propagation 9.2.05
<<Anthony's input>>
Hello Crew!
<Fred>
You've been helpful with my previous questions, and
I'm hoping you may have some insights or thoughts on a couple of quandaries that are pestering me tonight! I've been shipping out clams lately via 2-day shipments (with 100% success rates thus far!...knock on wood),
<<FWIW... 2-day on livestock in general is tolerable for some species, but not a good habit at all.
Especially in cases of additional delay or inclimate weather>>
and a recent "issue" got me thinking. Generally these are clams in the 3-4" range that I ship out in small 4x8" Kordon breathing bags. I would guess there's maybe a cup of water in each one. I'm sure you're familiar with the bags, so I won't go into detail.
<Do know this Novalek product>
<<dreadful for shipping corals and spiny marine fishes, of which there are many. Novel idea, but inherently flimsy to be effective (breathing)>>
Though every one has made it just fine, the most recent shipment arrived in a broken bag and mostly dry, though there was still moisture in the bag due to packing with a lot of newspaper as well. This clam was also just fine upon arrival.
<Are very tough animals>
This got me thinking: since the clams retain water while they're closed up, would it make sense (or not?)
to perhaps wrap a rubber band around the clam so it would only be able to open up a little?
<Mmm, I would not do this>
<<yes... what he said. Yikes>>
The last clam that broke through the bag has a couple of sharp edges on its shell, and I'm sure it was the clam opening up quickly in transit that popped the bag.
<Or just it rolling about>
<<Agreed.. the clam opening did not do it... the bags
are weak and the shipping rough along the way>>
I'm not sure how long a clam can remain closed...I would assume there would be some sort of breathing activity necessary?
<Yes>
I wouldn't want to stop this during shipment (obviously). Your thoughts? Is it a worthwhile method to attempt??
<Not IMO>
My second question is about Euphyllia propagation. We have two corals (E. paradivisa and E. glabrescens) in our 24g nano-cube that continuously form buds around the base of the larger polyps. They eventually float away never to be seen again...
<?>
<<the coral forms these buds on healthy colonies and if the large polyp head above it is damaged or chomped (often so in the wild), then there are ready and waiting buds to grow if/when they are exposed to more light and water flow. But when the polyps above it are
large and healthy, the buds abate (wax and wane really) or get aborted>>
but I'm starting to feel guilty about letting all these polyps go to waste!
<I don't think these are Euphyllia polyps>
What would be the proper way to collect and mount these?
<<some aquarists carve them off with a paring knife and let the tiny polyps settle in cups with tiles or reef plugs). If the polyp is large enough, you can also handle it with tweezers and super glue it with a dab upon rock>>
There is no skeleton on any of them that I can tell, so I'm not sure if they would glue down very well.
<<cup settlement for these>>
My other thought is some netting over a simple plug of some sort. I consulted Anthony's book but wasn't able to find any specific information on them.
<I will cc him here re>
The frogspawn alone puts out 6-8 polyps a week or so, and I think these would be excellent candidated for aquaculture if I can figure out a method to save and grow them.
<< we demonstrate this in workshops if you make it out to a hobby club conference... MACNA is coming up next in DC Sept 2005 (see MASNA.org)>>
Looking for a little insight on the subject if you can provide any. Once again, many thanks!
Fred
<Bob Fenner>
<<Anthony Calfo>>

Re: Shipping Clams and Euphyllia Propagation  9/9/05
Hi guys,
<Have sent your query along to Antoine as well>
I realize it's been a busy week, but I just wanted to touch base to see if you had any more insights on these frogspawn floaters...I'm letting a few every week go, hoping I can maybe do something with them!
Thanks!
Fred
<You did see Anthony's input, archived here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/clambizfaqs.htm
He does think these are offspring from your Caryophylliid>
Subject:
Hi Bob,
<Fred>
Thanks so much for the help. I'll take your advice on shipping the clams and won't mess with a good thing right now.
<Good>
With regards to the Euphyllia, when you say you don't think they're Euphyllia polyps, do you mean they're something else completely, or not likely polyps?
I've attached a picture for you here.
<Unfortunately, not here...>
They are definitely from the two Euphyllia corals, that much I'm 100% sure on. Well, after a few pics, the best are attached (yet another argument for me getting a macro lens!).
I found one BIG piece in the back of the tank. Since I never saw how it got there, I can't say whether it was pinched off by something or extruded, or simply fell off. Your thoughts?
<Could be a "recruit" from your main colony... do break off...>
They're not the best pictures, but I think you should be able to see the two polyp buds forming at the base of one of the larger polyps. These are what seem to end up floating around in the tank, though now maybe I'm not so sure after seeing the rather large piece in the back. Can these buds be propagated successfully?
<Yes>
They're maybe 2-3mm tall right now, and I can't tell if they've got any sort of skeleton yet, but it intrigues me nonetheless.
BTW, the "baby polyp" picture is what appears to be one of the buds. I know for sure it's from the Frogspawn, but whether it's one of the buds (I know they're improperly called anthocauli, but you get the idea) or simply a piece that came off, as I theorized before.
It would be wonderful if I could add these guys to my current repertoire of Sarcophyton sp., various Zooanthids, Xenia, Cerith snails, etc...
Thanks again!
Fred
<Would "grow up" and see... I had initially thought these were likely planulated hydrozoans... now I'm more inclined to think they are asexual buddings of the Euphyllia. Bob Fenner>

Still looking for commercial source/s of Tridacnids
Ia Orana Bob,
<And to you my friend>
Hope you're having a good summer.
We talked a while back about Tridacna with cites for the European market, and I started communicating with Jennifer Sugiyama from Belau Aquaculture, but for some reason I have been unable to reach her for the past month, she doesn't answer emails, and I'm starting to wonder if she really wants to do business (maybe business is too good); so I'm looking for other potential suppliers, but no chance so far; any leads? Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands,? I keep getting offers from Viet-Nam, but they want to send me crocea, maxima, squamosa & write derasa on the cites, and I really don't want to get into that. So if you have the time, any info is more than welcome.
Best regards,
Patrick E. Corsi
Aquatic Transship
<Will again ask friends Barry Neigut and James Fatherree if they can help here. Nana, Bob Fenner>

Response to: Still looking for commercial source/s of Tridacnids 6-28-05
Patrick,
Vietnam has CITES, so I don't know why they are telling you that? Might try this person.
Warren C.
Puas Local Products
P.O. box 190
Kolonia, Pohnpei fm 96941
Tel: (691) 320-5041
Cel:(691)920-4627
And this one as well.   http://www.songnamco.com
Hope this helps.
Barry
www.clamsdirect.com

Clams from the source/s
Hi Bob
              We are a Wholesaler of corals in the UK, just found your site , looking for a supplier of clams, to the UK, London. would appreciate any help you could give us,
thanks very much  
John Sam
Marine World
<Have cc'd Barry Neigut of ClamsDirect here in the hope he will respond, help you. Bob Fenner>

Ia Orana Mr. Fenner,
<Hello to you my friend>
I'm writing to you because I want to import ornamental Tridacna for the European market, and from what I've read on the internet, you seem to be the person to talk to.
<Maybe... as a person to refer others to/from>
But first let me introduce myself: 
My name is Patrick Corsi, I am part French-part Greek; I was born & raised in Athens, Greece, earned an M.A In Pol.Sci/ Intl. Rel. in California, moved to Maui for 5 years, and then to Moorea, French Polynesia for 15 years, where I worked in the cultured pearl industry. 
I have now moved to the south of France where I work with a friend who started a transshipping business 3 years ago.  I want to make sure the farms we deal with are reliable & do not use any illegal fishing or farming methods.
As you surely know, we need CITES papers for imports into Europe, so even though certain countries (i.e. Viet-Nam)
<Yes>
have the required export papers, we can't import from there to France. Furthermore, even though I am in the business to make some cash like everybody else, I would like this venture to have a positive social & environmental impact on the place we deal with; that is why I would rather collaborate with small Indo-Pacific island -nation businesses, where economic opportunities other than aquaculture are almost non-existent.
<Good>
I have heard of Belau Aquaculture in Palau; do you have any opinion of them?
<They have had some spotty folks, incidents over the years, but the current outfit seems honest, competent>
Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience,
Best regards,
Patrick E. Corsi
Aquatic Transship
Tel. 04 93 74 05 02
Fax 04 93 74 05 32
<If there is much money involved, I strongly encourage your visiting the various sites, and DO consider negotiating with the (national) airlines involved... and possibly piggybacking orders (with others in/out of the trade) for regular full container rates. Bob Fenner> 

Wholesalers in Canada 1/29/05
Thanks for taking the time to read my email. I am starting a new coral and clam retail business, and am desperately trying to find wholesaler of clams and corals in Canada. Any help or direction would be greatly appreciated. 
<I just replied to a similar question for a chap overseas... do see my reply below>
There is a lot of demand in Canada for quality clams, and I would love to be able to bring some in. Also do you have any idea what the general minimum orders for clams are?
<extremely high... several thousand clams often so. The clam farmers are protecting their biggest distributors (rightly so) by strong-arming the small dealers into heeding industry price points. This keeps everyone in business and doesn't hamstring the big wholesalers by selling at the same prices to their (retailer) customers>
Thanks, Mike
<my best advice if for you to subscribe to some trade journals like Pet Age, Pet Business or Pet Supplies Marketing... you will get indices of industry merchants in them and can pick from many of the wholesalers in the US and around the world that may be able to supply you. Best of luck, Anthony>

Looking for Livestock suppliers 1/29/05
Hi Bob
<Anthony Calfo in his stead> 
Found your website just yesterday , We are a importer trying to find a supplier of maxima clams and Acropora Corals ,would be grateful if you can help.  Thanks very much. Best Regards, Hassan Shabir
<my best advice if for you to subscribe to some trade journals like Pet Age, Pet Business or Pet Supplies Marketing... you will get indices of industry merchants in them and can pick from many of the wholesalers in the US and around the world that may be able to supply you. Best of luck, Anthony>

Looking for Tridacna Clams-or seeds
Hello Bob, my name is Michael from Miko-Marine in Berlin, we're an importer for corals and inverts in Germany. I've got one question: Can you tell me some sources or Tridacna farms in the pacific ocean where I can order Tridacna-clams or  Tridacna seeds who can export to Europe?
<Can help direct you to folks who might be able to help you. Gerald Heslinga of Indo-Pacific Sea Farms (http://www.ipsf.com/) and Barry Neigut of Clamsdirect.com (I've cc'ed him here, see above) should know where to look next. Good luck, life. Bob Fenner>
Thanks and best regards
Michael
Miko-Marine
Pannwitzstr.79a
D-13403 Berlin
- Germany -
tel. 0049 176 26098337
fax. 0049 30 40912406
e-mail: Miko-Marine@gmx.de

Vietnam supplier
>Dear Sir/Madam,
We are from SongNam Co., LTD in Vietnam. Our company specializes in supplying kinds of Tridacna, Crocea, Maxima, Squamosa.. that have two main colors :green & blue. Besides We have a lot of Marine Fishes, Soft Corals anemone, live rock, sea-star & trifling-coral-Trifling-corals used to filter water in tank.
At present We have a large farm to be located in a Island. We can supply them with the large quantity, beautiful color & strong. If you need to buy them, please contact us by mail:
info@songnamco.com
Best wishes to you
Huy Khanh
>>Thank you for the information, will be placed on our Daily FAQs page. Marina 

Giant clam source
Dear Sir/Madam,
<Hello to you>
We are from SongNam Co., LTD in Vietnam. Our company specializes in supplying  kinds of Tridacna, Crocea, Maxima, Squamosa..that have two main colors :green& blue. Besides we have a lot of Marine Fishes, Soft Corals anemone, live rock, sea-star &trifling-coral-Trifling-coralish used to filter water in tank At present We have a large farm to be located in a Island. We can supply them with the large quantity, beautiful color &strong. If you need to buy them, please contact us by mail: info@songnamco.com
Best wishes to you
<Thank you for your note. Will share, post on WetWebMedia.com. Bob Fenner>
Huy Khanh

Re: Clams
Bob and Perry,
Here is a connection in Vietnam where I am sure they can export to Singapore. info@songnamco.com Hay Khanh. T. Crocea, T. Squamosa and T. Maxima.
Hope this helps. Cheers, Barry
www.clamsdirect.com 
<Thanks Bar. Bob F>

Follow Up (visit in Sing., looking for Ricordea floridae and tridacnids)
Hi Bob
<Edwin!>
Nice meeting you the other day.  I trust that you have by now rested from the trip.
<Yes... somewhat. Thank you again for taking the time to share with us re your business>
Anyway, below are my contact information, please forward these to the Ricordea culture and also if possible a clam jobber/wholesaler.
<Am going to first cc Barry Neigut (the gentleman I mentioned who owns, operates ClamsDirect(.com) for his input. He's coming over for lunch and chatting this very day>
  Been looking for real show grade stuff for quite some time already.  Can get at least 100 ricos polyps or 200 clams at one go, if they are real show stuff.
<Amazing>
Name: Edwin Lam
Contact number: +65  98582018
Email: lamcy@i2r.a-star.edu.sg
Thanks for the help and do let me know if you are dropping by in the region again.
<Will do so. Hello to Perry. Bob Fenner>
Best Rgds
Edwin Lam

Barry's ClamsDirect E-Biz (note: add link to Mar. Subweb, Tridacnid f')
http://www.clamsdirect.homestead.com/Index1~ns4.html
We up and running.....
Barry
www.clamsdirect.net
<Congrats! Will post to WetWebMedia's Marine Links and "Giant Clam" pages. Bob Fenner>

Re: Barry's ClamsDirect E-Biz (note: add link to Mar. Subweb, Tridacnid f')
Thanks Bob for your support. Thing have started off better than I could imagine. LOTS of work just answering all the e-mails but I have turn some of them into customers.
<Good to hear>
Haven't seen Scott in a while but have been up there several times buying clams. I have really gotten some nice stuff. Hope Scott's see the business that I am doing with SDC.
<He does or will soon enough>
Thanks for the link.
Best Regards.
Barry
<You're welcome. Excelsior! Bob Fenner>

Clams (Tridacnid biz)
Hi Bob,
It was nice to see you at the last meeting. Randy has a nice tank.
<Very nice>
Ok, here's the deal. I need your help.
I am setting up a clam tank so that I can obtain clams and then sell them to reefer for a reasonable price, not these prices that some of these LFS are selling them for. Example a 2" Maxima for 59.00 to 89.00.
<Mmm, there are valid reasons for this sort of retail pricing... as you will soon learn>
I have real passion for clams and would enjoy doing this in my spare time. I client already.
<Okay>
Do you know where I can find a importer that I can have clams shipped direct to me via LAX. I know some people that are getting there clams from Marshal Island but he will not give me his connection. I will have all the proper permits and such.
<Let me send this around to a few friends in the trade for their response to you... Do contact me if you hear from no one. Be seeing you. Bob Fenner>
I hope that you can provide me with information.
Best Regards.
Barry

What's new from Barry at ClamsDirect
Hi Friend,
<Hey Bar>
Just a note to say hi and see how you were doing.
<Howdy, fine>
Am working on that tank project that I discussed with you and going to look at the prototype today. Have several hobbyist that are interested in it as well as some LFS that are willing to carry it for us. Still have to do some number crunching before going on the market. You impute is always welcome as you have been in this trade before I was born. <G>
<Sounds good>
Last week we finished our gathering of numbers and was pleasantly surprised with results which I will share with you in person. Shipping results, survival of clams and other interesting facts.
<Okay>
Will the book be released on time? I know that you guys have been working very hard to meet your deadline. <G>
<Think it will be delayed...hopefully by not long>
Still trying VERY hard to put this trip together in the Marshall Island this summer. Have talked with Rod and he will have to discuss it with their CEO and attorneys as they are concerned about trade secrets and such. Conveyed to him that I am not interested in trade secrets as this will be an educational trip for me and the film footage will be used for the purpose educating the hobbyist better on how to care for the animals and see how they are farmed plus increase my knowledge as well so I can answer questions in a intelligent manner.
<Good>
Chatted with Paul Mansur yesterday and he says to tell you hi.
<Hi to Paul>
Tell Diana hi for me and I will place another order as I am getting low on KoralVit.
<Will do so>
Best Regards,
Barry
www.clamsdirect.com
<Bob F>

New Book and Clam Coverage
Does the new "Reef Invertebrates" book have a significant amount of information on clams?
<I don't know what you mean by significant, but I can tell you that we feel that we have given a good broad coverage of the topic. It takes up 14 full-size pages with text and images in its current edited form.>
I saw that they are addressed in there but most books that mention clams don't do much more than simply mention them.
<It does not have the detailed coverage of say Daniel Knops "Giant Clams" but still a good piece of selection criteria,  pests & predators, size accommodation, general care, placement, feeding, compatibility, etc.>
I am a reef fanatic but clams are my passion. I am looking forward to ordering an autographed copy of the new book. I love www.WetWebMedia.com and I like your works that I have already read so I have high hopes for this book.
<As do we.>
Is there a cutoff date for preordering the signed copies?
<We have not really discussed this yet, but I would not count on pre-ordering much past the end of the year.>
Thanks, Bret Packard
<You are welcome. -Steven Pro>

The man who sold the world (clams)
I already have the picture of the book and I can link it to your pre-order site.
<Great>
Lorenzo has already said that he/them/whom ever is going to give me/ClamsDirect credit for the pictures that they will use. Needless to say that exposure is great! THANKS GANGS!
<See you soon. Bob, the Crip>
Barry
www.clamsdirect.com

The man who sold the world (clams)
By the way, I pre-order my book today from WetWebMedia. If you and the gang don't mind I would like to display the book on my web site. Maybe get some more exposure.
<Barry... I'm asking the folks at WWM to present you with a copy for your help, use of your pix... and to send (NOW!) our ad/link for posting on your site (if you will). And... to include your and your co.s name credit in the text (this REALLY helps). Bob F>
Barry
www.clamsdirect.com

Educational video (Tridacnid Clam culture)
Hi Bob,
You are most likely on some dive somewhere in the world. Tough life :)
<Not at this moment Barry... am home in San Diego>
Taking your advise I am going to start spending more time in the field but have to leave enough time for Clams Direct. Planning on attending IMAC and MACNA as a exhibitor this coming year. Looking forward to doing that.
<Good idea>
Maybe you can pass this note on to some of your contact. Would love to visit some clam farms to take some video's of the raising of aquacultured clams and possible obtain some information regarding such.
This material would be used strictly for educational material. Have been asked to make some presentation at some of the reef clubs and share some idea's on how to better keep clams successfully. Have a video by Simon Ellis, " Spawning and Early Larval Rearing of Giant Clams" which I have used
in the presentations. If visiting a clam farm would not be available to me then I would be more than happy to pay for someone to make such a video.
<Will ask about...>
Any help would be much appreciated as always.
<Let's try to stay in touch re trips out to the areas where culture is going on... best to "go there", and really to "shoot your own" footage.>
Best Regards,
<Bob Fenner>
Barry

Re: Educational video
Yes I would rather shoot my own footage but having problems finding a farm that will allow me to do that. The farms that SDC uses I am going to have Erik asked them as I don't have their names. As you know everything appears to be "Secret"
<It is indeed>
LOL Have found that out this past year and half. Going to see Walt next week and maybe he can have someone contact me.
<He can. Bob Fenner>
Best Regards, Barry
www.clamsdirect.com

RE: Educational video
Hey there Bobbie,
<Hi Eric>
Scottie is at the Angels game, but I happen to be using his computer tonight.
<He'll be out whooping it up>
I hope all is well for you and your wife. Chicago trade show went down very nicely and we had some great fun with the "trade show gang".
<As usual>
I hope to see you around LA soon. Keep in touch, Eric
<Will try to visit>
P.S All Barry has to do is ask and he can go anywhere he wants. I would be happy to set him up to visit the Marshall's farm....he buys mostly their clams anyway. I am sure Rod would be happy to show him around. I think he is just doing fine with the knowledge he has. He has great customer service
and provides his customers with some excellent clams.
<Yes. Please make this known to Barry... he seems a very nice fellow, and the "P.R." would do the trade good I merit. Be seeing you, Bob F>
Cya around.

Recent developments in Singapore
Hi Bob
A Tropical marine Institute has been set up in Singapore. They are trying to raise clams and seahorses. Here is a link from the local newspapers
http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/cybernews/0,1874,,00.html?
<Hope they've contacted others in the field... this has all been done, and is being done now by others. Bob Fenner>
Perry

Tridacna (commercial)
Hi !
I just found your website in the net.
I am an importer for Marinelife in Germany but I am looking for an exporter of Tridacna clams. As you are a "master of Tridacna" :-)) maybe you know
some good sources. I would be very thankful if you could provide some information.
Thanks a lot.
<Thank you for your note. I will bcc it to friends/associates in the trade who deal with Giant Clams and ask that they respond directly to you. Bob Fenner>
Regards,
THOMAS LAGE
www.thomas-lage.de

Re: Tridacna
Thx a lot for your reply and your support. I hope i will be receive some information as soon as possible.
Have a nice day..#
<Danke. Be chatting. Bob Fenner>
Thomas Lage
- Germany -

Dave Palmer contact
Bob, have corresponded with Anthony a few times. Saw on your WWM site of a Dave palmer, who looks to be an importer/transhipper. Could you pass his contact info (email or phone) to me.
<Mmm, could but don't. I will forward a message by you to others... it's up to them if they want to communicate with others>
Also, did you get that Amazon contribution from me ? Don't know if that went through or not. Thanks
Ed
<You're raising MikeK's blood pressure (who monitors such things), but yes. Thank you, Bob Fenner>

Re: Dave Palmer contact
Well, you can pass this information along as well. We're debating bringing in 100+ giant clams as an additional supply for some of the stores I deal with. The debate is whether to get our own US F&W permit and bring them in directly, or to work with a transhipper. Thanks for passing this along.
<Ahh! I think I can be of more use to you my friend, than simply making an indirect reference. For this number of clams I would deal with a U.S. intermediary... I will cc your note to friends/associates in the trade, asking if they will please contact you, introduce themselves, their services. For a hundred clams there is no real sense to trying to "DIY" importing them I assure you. If/when you can handle several hundred at a time, on a regular basis... Bob Fenner>
Ed

Re: Dave Palmer contact (actually a lead for 100 tridacnids)
It is actually several hundred. We plan on doing several hundred to thousand holding/grow-out at any given time, and move on average at least 100-200/month. It will take several weeks/months to stabilize the flow/delivery and everything else. As it is wholesale, margins are small enough as it is, that the only real options are transshipping and/or direct importation. I've already been in contact with a few Mariculture farms overseas and can satisfy their quantities. Just working the numbers from a transshipment point of view as well, and determining viability.
<I'm beginning to see. Edward, do we know each other in the trade aside from here? Please understand me... I am guarded re getting folks (or aiding them on the path) into trouble. Have you worked in the industry? In a livestock distribution capacity? I would like to know how I might best help you at this point... two different individuals have sought my assistance re tridacnids in recent months. Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/clambizfaqs.htm and the links beyond... for similar input.>
Also toying with greenhouse viability/grow out, rather than internal
warehousing with MH lighting.
<A possibility... many things (well only a handful principally) to consider... the relative costs of build-out, ongoing use/maintenance (energy costs, thermal insulation...), rents... Bob Fenner>
Ed

Clams
Hi Bob,
Searched for C-Quest and wasn't able to come up with anything. Is he a exporter? 
<Oh! This is Bill Addison's old facility (well, the one twice replaced from storms...). Dave bought, runs it... is adding a great deal of variety to the livestock produced there. Do you subscribe to the industry mag.s? You might want to do so... just to keep the "annual buyer's guides" handy>
am fairly happy with my supplier but like to keep my options
open :)
<I understand>
How about that lunch?
<Most any/every day... come on by in Mira Mesa if you have time. Bob Fenner>
Barry

Re: Clams
Thanks Bob,
Are you back in SD? Would love to do lunch or dinner, give me a call sometime. I number is on my site. :)
<Am back in SD. Are you going to the WWPSA trade show in Anaheim? We're up there Sunday if you'd like to chat, caravansirrah. Maurice and Valesha are going there, Todd Gabriel of Custom Aquatic... a few other friends, associates altogether. Bob Fenner>
Regards,
Barry

Re: Clams Direct, WWN, WWM
Bob,
Sorry I was mistaken. It is 100.00 for 5,000 banners and 150.00 for 10,000 banners. Some BB get a low as 30.00 per month for rotation of Banners.
<Ahh, thanks for the clarification>
Regards,
Barry
<Be seeing you, Bob Fenner>

Clams
Was planning to attend the trade show but had a commitment already. :(
<Rats. A great opportunity missed to meet folks, learn, share, build relationships. Do try to attend business, hobbyist and scientific conferences in the field... really worthwhile>
I do have your card, will call you this coming week and hopefully we can meet up.
Barry
<Real good. Be chatting, eating. Bob Fenner>

Re: clam business. Antoine, pls review
Hey guys talked some of this over with Steve Pro last night. As of this second the green house idea sounds good but, (always a but huh?) I am not sure if my home sits the right way. Front of house sits southeast and rear of home sits southwest. I am not sure how conducive this would be. Perhaps if Anthony has any free (haha) time maybe he can take a look. I had originally thought about a greenhouse or small addition to back of house, but someone talked me out of it. I am not able to reverse flow right now and change up. When I can brake even (which should be after 3 or 4 orders) I can defiantly envision the green house idea.) Worried about heating and cooling for this idea.
<Skylights or "tubes" in the garage would be my route to go at this point/junction. Less cost, time... and more of the same for putting into your actual biz>
I am going to have about $3 k invested to get everything up and running. Very small at first. I am getting a 2 x 175 watt halide from Adam at the club for dirt cheap, a calcium reactor he had to repair for cheap, and he is going to build me a skimmer. For all hardware I will have about $1000 into it.
<Okay... you would do well to look into a line of credit... this proposition will likely require a few thousand dollars more for working capital, build-out, inventory, advertising...>
One of my large expenses is for a professional website very user friendly) it will process sales via credit card visa, mc, discover, Amex in real time and update web page to reflect current inventory. After the initial setup fees (friend of mine) it will cost me about $65 a month to keep site up and running. This fee includes web hosting fee and all credit card processing through advance merchant services. Website once designed will be updated by myself in an easy manor to save further fees.
<About the going rate>
As far as current setup plans it includes a 50 gallon shallow Rubbermaid tank that should hold about 50 to 60 3" to 4" clams. (Which is the amount Dave Palmer needs me to order to make it worth his while to ship to me wholesale. This will have an additional 70 gallon Rubbermaid sump with deep sand bed of about 7" to 8" of Southdown sand. A Beckett style skimmer maid by Adam C. from the club and a calcium reactor form Adam also. The lighting will be 2 x 175 10 k halides with1 or 2 4foot actinics for supplementation. Thinking one only. There will a shallow sand bed in the 50 gallon trough to help ensure the clams do not attach to the bottom of tub. Larger clams will sit upon pvc cutouts to help ensure this. I am probably going to add an additional 50 gallon trough for more room. Especially if I am going to quarantine. May be tough to hold onto stock and place a much larger order at first. We will have to see where things land.
<More water volume is a very good idea>
It is going to be a sole proprietorship for tax reasons and ease of getting into. That way I do not need any special permits or tax id numbers. unless you know otherwise)
<No, this is the route I would go as well>
O well that is about what I have planned for now. looking forward to more advice. Rob Huss
<Bob Fenner>

Clams (professional correspondence)
Hey, Bob just dropping a note to ya. Things are progressing nicely for my small clam adventure. I have been reading a lot 
<This is two words>
lately about what seems to be a large death ratio in clams in the last few years (months). I just wandered if you have heard anything about this, or maybe just isolated incidents. 
<Have heard enough... what do you think the root cause/s of mortality are?>
It seems from what I have read that it is mainly from Wild caught clams from Pohnpei (sp?). 
<Look it up... Pohnpei>
I know that the clams
<?>
I am going to buy are farm raised, but they still come out of the ocean. O well just shaking in my boots a little I guess. From what I hear it may be some kind off infectious disease like Vibrio, passed from one bad clam to every one it comes in contact with. O well, thanks again, Rob
<Time to study... Bob F>

Clam business.
Hey bob just a small update. Dave Palmer has gotten in touch with me and says he would supply me with clams as long as I order 50 at a time so that I could get wholesale prices. 
<Outstanding. Dave is a person of tremendous experience and integrity in the industry>
Below is a copy of the email he sent me. It is a little confusing to me so I asked him to give me a rough estimate of how much money I would be looking at for 50 clams, just to give me an idea as what to expect.
<Good idea. Always appropriate to ask questions. Clarity is pleasurable>
Quote "You do not need any import license or such. The clams come into L.A. on Thursday afternoon and we forward them to you for arrival at your airport Friday morning. You probably should have the water changed by us before forwarding but that is up to you.
<Yes, good idea on the water change if there is going to be more than another 8-10 hours or more delay before your receiving in PA>
50 clams would probably be the smallest number that I would want to sell and it may need to be a few more depending on how many it takes to fill the last box.
<Very important... to buy minimum plus orders... the cost per unit is the lowest in this fashion... don't buy anything you have to "sit on" for more than a few weeks>
We sell Crocea both first and super grades, Maxima, a few Squamosa, and a few Hippopus hippopus clams. Prices vary depending on size and color. You pay the FOB island price plus 3.85 per kilo for freight from Solomon's to L.A., 10.00 per box for box and packing charge, 7.50 per box for fish and wildlife clearance in L.A., and 5.00 per box for the cites document charges. The clams will be sent to you freight collect from L.A. so you will pay the L.A. to your airport charges at your airport.
<Very reasonable>
That is about it. Let me know when you are ready for clams and I can let you know what stock is like and what prices are.
Best regards,
Dave Palmer "
As far as plans for the tank setup I have a few ideas. I was going to do a 8' long by 4' wide by 12" deep. 
<Make the overflows (likely to sumps/totes below) adjustable so you can raise/lower the water depth.>
I feel no need for greater depth as this is for ease of use and profit, not display. My idea is that this tank would be about 240 gallons and allow me to grow as business increases. I would only have to light one section of the tank at a time. When I need more light simply add a section above the new stock. 
<Sounds good>
It would also mean easier filtration, i.e. one sump, one calcium reactor, one large skimmer. I checked on acrylic prices and I can get a 4' by 8' sheet of 1/2 acrylic for about $250. 
<Half inch? No need to be this thick... Please contact Anthony.C... I'll cc him here re... I would make your first units out of glass probably... or thinner acrylic (1/4 inch likely, braced at the top)... but keep costs low... look into the polyethylene totes I mentioned re the supports for underneath/sumps... Ask about (the club, stores, service co.s) for "used gear"... there are likely a bunch of suitable containers, pumps, what have you laying about that will do fine for little money>
Two sheets of acrylic can build the tank for about $500. I do not believe thicker than 1/2" acrylic would be needed with only 12" height. 
<... could be three feet tall... I would only make eight inches deep...>
I will put a few braces across the top of the tank, for support maybe a 4 or 5 inch brace every 2 feet or so. This 4 feet by 8 feet tank would allow me access from all sides never having to reach more than the standard 2 feet of a normal tank. Plumbing would also be easier than to plumb multiple tanks together, and keep adding extra pumps and filters.
I could also go the Rubbermaid 300 gallon trough route. It would be cheaper, but I am not sure what would be best. Or I could go with multiple tanks and keep adding another tank and plumbing them together as I grow.
<Many possibilities>
I am getting started on developing a website to sell the clams across the U.S. I have a basic knowledge of developing a website and have a friend who does this for a living so I am sure he would be willing to help me with all the hi tech stuff. (i.e. charge me) ha ha.
<Ask about in the club... become facile at doing the ongoing work on the site yourself>
I do appreciate the help you are providing. The people that you forwarded our last email to could you let me know what each of these people do? Or have to offer? This way I know who to bother for what I need.
<Mmm... It's better for them to come forward, identify themselves as they, their companies have time, interest my friend. You will understand this in the coming years. Bob Fenner>
Endless thanks Rob Huss

Clam Business!!!!
Hey Bob,
Just wanted to say again that it was a pleasure to meet you in Pittsburgh this past weekend. I really enjoyed hanging around with you and the fish geeks as my wife calls us). Anyhow I have been hot and heavy on coming up with some plans to start selling clams. 
<Very good. You have all going for you here... a good background in the theory and application of captive husbandry, a great location for this business... and a true burning desire for being successful at it>
My wife is possibly as excited as I am. So what kind of info and assistance can you provide to help me get setup? 
<Mmm, all sorts. The best things to do at this point are categorically to talk with friends in the trade who can/will be your suppliers. I'll cc them here, asking that they talk with you re the enterprise. At the same time, start drawing up plans (you mentioned conversion of your garage) for your physical plant... talk with others in the marine livestock trade re inexpensive gear including tanks, lighting, calcium reactor or other mech. for supplying alkalinity and biominerals. And lastly, develop a marketing plan... who are your customers? How do you intend to reach them? How will they know what you have? Do all this on paper... such that if you had to present it to a bank, they would understand our industry, your desires>
With a new baby coming my wife is excited about the possibility of helping out with the clams as it may help replace her lost income from staying at home. Any suggestions and advice will be greatly appreciated.
<A step at a time. Do contact me/us as the project unfolds.>
Also you said you would be able to provide me with some contacts for vendors to pester about donations for the club to help us grow.
<Please see here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/adtrackdb.htm>
Once again thanks for your efforts, your book CMA. is the reason I even have a tank at all. And if anybody pays me a compliment, it is a compliment to persons like yourself who help this hobby become a passion and a lifestyle to so many.
Thanks again, Rob Huss
<Thank you my friend. Bob Fenner>