Some can get up to 2 inches long with the right diet, but that’s quite uncommon.Īuthor Note: Despite their small size, these critters tend to have quite the presence in your tank. In captivity, the average size of an Assassin Snail is about one inch in length. The eyes are located on the ends to help the snail detect light and motion. On its head, you’ll see two short tentacles. It’s covered in brown and black specks, which undoubtedly help the snail blend in with the substrate. The snail’s body takes on a light beige hue. You can often find the snail clinging onto the glass or moving up rocks. Of course, the snail’s movements are slow and steady. It contracts to help the critter navigate its surroundings. To get around the tank, the Assassin Snail has a very muscular foot. Basically, it’s a trap door that allows the snail to seal itself off in its shell. The interesting thing about this behavior is that the snail is fully capable of staying safe from most small predators. When the snail feels threatened, it will retreat back into its shell for protection. It’s conical and features a blunt point on one end. The shell itself has some unique properties as well. Some snails do have a solid brown shell, but it’s quite rare compared to the stripe pattern. This has lead to the nickname “Bumblebee Snail.” The shells feature brown and yellow stripes. Unlike other snails that have a bland shell, this species has some color to it. Whether you plan on using an Assassin Snail to control the snail population or not, they sure are a joy to look at. Otherwise, they might not even make it to the 2-year mark. These snails have a unique diet that needs to be fulfilled. Tank conditions and diet play a big role in their overall health and lifespan. While that is the norm, some enthusiasts have reported these gastropods living for upwards of 5 years! The average Assassin Snail lifespan is somewhere between 2 and 3 years. Not only do they serve a practical purpose in fish tanks, but they’re very easy to care for. Originally found throughout Southeast Asia, Assassin Snails have become very popular among aquarists.
Even a small collection of Assassin Snails can take care of a large colony of smaller species in a few weeks. They’re carnivores that like to feed off of other snails!Īs such, they’re often introduced to tanks that are overrun by pest snails. While most other snail species are used exclusively for keeping ecosystems clean, these critters have a different claim to fame. The Assassin Snail ( Clea helena or Anentome helena) is a unique addition to freshwater tanks.
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