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Malaysian Trumpet Snail
   Melanoides tuberculata

Origin: *blank*   |   Approx Size: less than 1 inch

   My Experience (summary of my own keeping)

Malaysian trumpet snails are both friend and enemy. Their inclusion in aquariums is usually by accident, such as through transferring substrate or plant matter from an established aquarium into another one. These snails are nocturnal, so during the day these snails burrow beneath the substrate's surface to rest and come out at night. Their behavior and the nature of their "invasion" into aquariums is what makes Malaysian trumpet snails both suspect and praise-worthy.

The substrate of aquariums, especially those with live plants, needs to "breathe." Aeration helps to stop stagnation in the substrate, which is common among substrates with very small particles, and can lead to the build up of toxic chemicals. Malaysian trumpet snails, living below the substrate's surface, churn the aquarium bedding and allow the substrate to breathe. Another benefit is the snails compost waste, which speeds the aquarium's natural cycle and spreads nutrients to live plants faster.

Plants and other living things are not harmed by these snails, in fact they may benefit from Malaysian trumpet snails, but the matter of the snails' propagation can create problems. At night, when the lights have been off for a few hours, turn them on again. The snails will blanket the glass walls as if an invasion is underway. It's either unsightly or, considering it happens at night while the fish are sleeping, a marvelous display. Malaysian trumpet snails breed so readily that their shells will liter the substrate and their night-time display could become overwhelming to watch, as if the aquarium is out of control.

Thinning the population of Malaysian trumpet snails within the aquarium is not an uncommon practice. The problem is "how?" There are pesticides, but they could harm the other aquarium inhabitants. Some fish enjoy a snail buffet, but they are few and sometimes not easy to keep. The question really is whether to sacrifice some aquarium aesthetics in exchange for the snails' help with aquarium maintenance, or end their spread and keep a regular maintenance schedule.

   Basic Behavior (based upon observations, readings and conversations)

Nocturnal. Fast breeders.

   Food Preference (brands and types)

Algae and Food Particles

   Links

http://www.planetinverts.com/malaysian_trumpet_snail.html

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDX1j1z5mME