Snail Eater Assassin Snails (Juvenile ) | Single

Assassin Juvenile Snails

Assassin snails (Clea helena) are a fascinating and beneficial addition to freshwater aquariums, particularly for those dealing with pest snail infestations. Here’s an overview of these intriguing creatures:

Description:

Appearance: Juvenile assassin snails have a conical shell with a distinct pattern that features alternating dark and light stripes. Their shells are usually around 0.5 to 1 inch long when they are young, and they grow larger as they mature.

Color: The shell coloration can vary, but they typically exhibit a combination of brown, yellow, and black.

Habitat:

Natural Environment: Native to Southeast Asia, these snails are commonly found in freshwater habitats like rivers and streams, often among leaf litter and debris.

Care in Aquariums:

Tank Size: They can thrive in a variety of tank sizes, but a minimum of 10 gallons is recommended for a small group.

Water Conditions: Assassins prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 and a temperature between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C).

Diet: As their name suggests, assassin snails are carnivorous. They primarily feed on pest snails, but they can also eat detritus, leftover fish food, and other protein-rich foods.

Behavior:

Temperament: Generally peaceful, they can coexist with a variety of other fish and invertebrates. However, they may compete with smaller snails for food.

Hunting Behavior: As they mature, they exhibit interesting predatory behavior, using their siphon to locate and hunt down other snails.