Description
Orange Rabbit Snail – Tylomelania gemmifera
Introduction
The Orange Rabbit Snail (Tylomelania gemmifera) is a unique and vibrant freshwater snail known for its elongated shell and striking orange body. Native to Sulawesi, Indonesia, this snail adds an exotic flair to aquariums while contributing to tank cleanliness. Reaching up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) in length, these peaceful creatures are ideal for aquarists seeking a distinctive, low-maintenance addition to their tank.
1. Natural Habitat and Behavior
In the wild, Orange Rabbit Snails inhabit freshwater lakes with rocky substrates, moderate currents, and abundant biofilm. These snails are grazers, feeding on algae, detritus, and organic debris. They are relatively slow-moving but actively forage during the day, making them an engaging species to observe.
2. Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: Minimum of 10 gallons, with additional space for groups.
- Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel to protect their delicate body and aid burrowing.
- Decor: Include driftwood, rocks, and live plants to mimic their natural environment and provide grazing surfaces.
- Water Conditions:
- pH: 7.5–8.5 (prefer slightly alkaline water)
- Temperature: 75–84°F (24–29°C)
- Hardness: Moderate to hard water to support shell health.
- Lighting: Moderate lighting encourages algae growth, a key part of their diet.
3. Diet and Feeding
Orange Rabbit Snails are primarily herbivores and detritivores, requiring a diet rich in plant matter and algae. Their diet should include:
- Algae and biofilm from tank surfaces
- Blanched vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or cucumber
- Algae wafers and sinking pellets
- Calcium supplements to maintain shell integrity
4. Compatibility with Other Fish
These snails are peaceful and coexist well with non-aggressive fish, shrimp, and other invertebrates. Avoid housing them with snail-eating species such as puffers, loaches, or large cichlids, which may harm them.
5. Common Challenges and Tips
- Shell Health: Ensure a calcium-rich diet and proper water hardness to prevent shell erosion.
- Water Parameters: Stability is crucial, as Rabbit Snails are sensitive to drastic changes in water conditions.
- Reproduction: They reproduce slowly, laying one or two eggs at a time, which hatch into fully formed baby snails. Overpopulation is rarely an issue.
- Tank Cleaning: While effective grazers, they do not substitute for regular tank maintenance.
Conclusion
The Orange Rabbit Snail (Tylomelania gemmifera) is a captivating and low-maintenance addition to freshwater aquariums. Their unique appearance, peaceful demeanor, and algae-grazing habits make them a popular choice among hobbyists. With proper care, they can thrive and enhance the beauty of your aquatic environment.
