Banded Trochus Snails

The Banded Trochus Snail (Trochus sp.) is a reef-safe, hardworking algae grazer known for its distinctive conical shell, banded spiral pattern, and impressive cleaning ability. These snails are peaceful, easy to care for, and can right themselves if flipped over — a major advantage over other cleanup crew snails. Ideal for both new and established reef tanks, Trochus snails help control film algae, diatoms, and detritus without disturbing coral or rockwork.

Care Guide:

Tank Size:
Suitable for nano tanks (10+ gallons) and up. Ideal ratio: 1 snail per 5–10 gallons.

Temperament:
Peaceful and fully reef-safe. Will not harm corals, inverts, or fish.

Lighting:
No specific lighting needs — thrives under all reef tank lighting.

Flow:
Moderate to high — these snails actively move across rock, glass, and substrate. Stronger flow zones help them stay efficient.

Placement:
Active on glass, rockwork, and sandbed.
Place directly into the display tank upon acclimation — no need to bury or attach.

Feeding:
Feeds naturally on:

• Film algae

• Diatoms

• Cyanobacteria (to some extent)

• Leftover fish food and detritus

Supplemental feeding is rarely needed in mature systems, but can include:

• Nori (dried seaweed)

• Algae wafers (if algae growth is limited)

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 74–78°F (23–26°C)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Salinity: 1.025–1.026

• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

• Calcium: 400–450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm

• Nitrate & Phosphate: Low but detectable (NO₃: 5–10 ppm, PO₄: 0.03–0.07 ppm)

Compatibility:
Totally reef-safe. Plays well with:

• Corals (LPS, SPS, softies)

• Shrimp, crabs, and other inverts

• Peaceful to semi-aggressive fish

Avoid housing with:

• Predator crabs or wrasses that may pick at snails

• Copper treatments (fatal to inverts)

Special Considerations:

• Self-righting ability sets them apart from Astraea snails — much better survival rate.

• Slow movers, but highly efficient grazers.

• May reproduce in well-established systems, adding free cleanup crew over time.

• Acclimate slowly — use drip method if possible for best long-term health.

Summary:

The Banded Trochus Snail is a must-have member of any reef tank cleanup crew. With its attractive shell, algae-eating power, and self-righting ability, it provides both form and function. Great for hobbyists of all experience levels, these snails help maintain a cleaner, healthier aquarium environment with minimal effort.