Trochus Snail

QUICK INFO:
Reef Compatible Yes
Care Level Beginner
Disposition Peaceful
Minimum Tank Size 24 gallons
Mature Size 2 inches
Placement in tank Any
Diet Herbivore
Range Indo-Pacific

The Trochus Snail is well suited for reef aquariums. As a general rule, you can keep one snail for every two to three gallons of aquarium water. The Trochus Snail is very peaceful and because of its shell shape, it is not easily eaten by crabs. Unlike its close relative, the Tectus Snail, the Banded Trochus Snail can right itself when knocked over.

The Trochus Snail does best in a well-established aquarium with ample hiding places and room to forage. It naturally feeds on algae, cyanobacteria, and diatoms amongst your live rock, substrate, and aquarium glass. The Banded Trochus is also an effective film algae eater. However, they only passively graze on other nuisance algae, such as hair algae.

Like other invertebrates, Trochus sp. is sensitive to high nitrate levels and intolerant of copper-based medications. It requires a gradual acclimation process, preferably the drip acclimation method. If food levels are insufficient in your aquarium, supplement their diet with dried seaweed. Though most Trochus Snails seem to breed easily, there are no distinguishing characteristics between males and females.

Approximate Purchase Size: 3/4" to 1"
Other Common Names: Turban Snail, Top Shell