Tropical Turbo Snail

The Tropical Turbo Snail is a highly effective algae-eating marine snail, known for its sturdy, spiral-shaped shell and voracious appetite for nuisance algae. Found in Indo-Pacific and Caribbean reefs, these snails are hardy, reef-safe, and essential members of any clean-up crew, helping to control hair algae, diatoms, and film algae on rocks and glass.

Care Guide:

• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons, but thrives in 30+ gallons for adequate food supply.
• Temperament: Peaceful, does not bother other tank inhabitants.
• Diet: Herbivorous – primarily consumes:
  • Hair algae, diatoms, and film algae
  • Dried seaweed (nori) or algae wafers (if natural algae is insufficient)
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Salinity: 1.023-1.025
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: <10 ppm preferred
  • Calcium: 400-450 ppm (for healthy shell growth)
• Flow: Moderate to high – appreciates stronger flow to prevent detritus buildup on surfaces.
• Reef Safe? Yes, completely reef-safe and will not harm corals or invertebrates.
• Tank Setup:
  • Requires plenty of live rock and hard surfaces for grazing.
  • Avoid keeping in tanks with unstable rockwork, as they are known to knock over loose corals.
• Compatibility:
  • Ideal for reef tanks and community saltwater aquariums.
  • Safe with fish, corals, and other invertebrates.
  • Avoid housing with predatory fish such as triggers or large wrasses, which may prey on snails.

Special Considerations:

• Flipping Issue: Turbo snails cannot right themselves if flipped over, making them vulnerable to predation or starvation. If found upside down, manually turn them back over.
• Food Supply: If algae levels are too low, supplement with algae sheets or pellets to prevent starvation.
• Acclimation: Slow drip acclimation is recommended, as they are sensitive to sudden salinity and temperature changes.

Summary:

The Tropical Turbo Snail is a hardy, reef-safe, and efficient algae grazer, making it a valuable addition to any marine tank’s clean-up crew. With adequate algae, stable water conditions, and careful handling, it will thrive and help maintain a clean, healthy reef environment.