Snails

Biology of Aquarium Snails

Common Species and Their Biology

Nerite Snails (Neritina spp.)

• They reproduce in brackish water → they do not invade freshwater aquariums
• They lay white eggs that do not hatch (a cosmetic nuisance, but harmless)
• The Best Algae Eaters for Aquariums
• Lifespan: 1–2 years

Apple Snails (Pomacea spp.)

• The largest ones (up to 10 cm)
• They can eat soft plants
• They lay fuchsia eggs out of the water (on the lid)
• Separate males from females to prevent overbreeding

Ramshorn Snails (Planorbarius corneus)

• Hermaphrodites → reproduce on their own
• Potential infestation if there is an excess of food
• Useful as substrate cleaners
• There are red or pink varieties that have been bred through selective breeding

Mystery Snail (Pomacea bridgesii)

• Similar to an apple but smaller
• It doesn't eat healthy plants
• They reproduce more slowly
• Good cleaner

Physa/Physella

• Common pest → appears on its own on purchased plants
• They reproduce in large numbers
• Useful in small amounts (they clean up debris), problematic in excess

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