El ram's horn snail (Marisa Cornuarietis) is a fascinating species that has conquered aquarium enthusiasts. This gastropod mollusk, belonging to the Ampullariidae family, is not only visually attractive, but also plays important roles in the aquatic ecosystems it inhabits. In this detailed article, we will explore its care, the habitat, physical characteristics and feeding, as well as additional information about their behavior and reproduction, to become an expert on this species.
General Characteristics of the Ram's Horn Snail
El ram's horn snail It is distinguished by its flattened spiral shell shape, with between 3 and 5 well-defined turns, which gives it an appearance only and attractive. Its size varies between 3.5 and 5 cm, although in optimal conditions it can reach up to 5.7 cm in diameter.
With regards to coloration The shell can vary from yellow and gold tones to dark brown with black stripes. Some specimens bred in captivity have shells without stripes, which makes them even more striking. Their body, usually beige, can show yellow, grey and black pigmented spots.
Origin and Distribution
This species is native to the American continent, specifically from countries in South America and Central America, such as Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia and Costa Rica. Its natural habitat is shallow freshwater with abundant vegetation. Over time, the ram's horn snail It has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including Asia and the United States, for the purpose of controlling invasive snail pests that affect ecosystem health and water quality.
In the late 40s, the species was brought to Cuba, and later spread to Puerto Rico, Florida and Texas. However, this has generated some controversy, as it is banned in some countries due to the ecological risk it poses.
Ideal Habitat and Aquarium Parameters
Create a suitable habitat for the Marisa Cornuarietis In the aquarium it is not complicated, but it follows some parameters essential to ensure your health and well-being.
- Water temperature: Between 23 °C and 27 °C. Although it is tolerant of brackish water, it prefers freshwater environments.
- Water hardness: It is crucial that the water is relatively hard, with a good calcium and magnesium content, as this contributes to the formation and maintenance of their shell.
- pH: Neutral or slightly alkaline, between 7.0 and 8.0.
- Aquarium size: Although they do not require an extremely large tank, a minimum of 10 liters per specimen is recommended to maintain a stable population.
An important point to note is that if the water is soft and lacks carbonates, the snail's shell can soften, affecting its overall health. In addition, it is advisable to include aquatic plants resistant, since, although they do not always devour them, they could harm them if they are hungry.
Ram's Horn Snail Feeding
The ram's horn snails his own omnivores and opportunistic by nature. Their diet includes:
- Plant material: They usually feed on algae, dead leaves and aquatic plants.
- Prepared foods: Like spirulina tablets or fish food.
- Boiled vegetables: Cucumber, lettuce, pumpkin and cauliflower.
It is important to provide them with a balanced diet that includes foods vegetables to prevent them from turning to aquarium plants as their main food source. In addition, their ability to clean algae makes them perfect allies for aquarium maintenance.
Reproduction and Breeding
El Marisa Cornuarietis It is an oviparous species. It lays its eggs in gelatinous clusters that attach to plant leaves or other surfaces in the aquarium. The eggs measure between 2 and 3 mm and hatch in about two weeks, depending on the water temperature. It is important to note that the adult snails themselves may consume their eggs, so if you wish to breed snails, consider moving the egg clusters to a separate tank.
Once hatched, the tiny snails look similar to the adults, but are smaller and less pigmented. They begin to feed themselves from day one.
Behavior and Compatibility
The behavior of the ram's horn snails They are peaceful and friendly, making them ideal for community aquariums. However, it is advisable to avoid including species such as aggressive cichlids, which could harm them. On the other hand, they coexist well with fish such as pearl gouramis, tetras and other harmless species.
Their activity is focused on cleaning the aquarium, since they are excellent algae eaters. They also have the ability to breathe both underwater and on the surface thanks to their combined system of gills and lungs.
Benefits of Keeping a Ram's Horn Snail in the Aquarium
In addition to being aesthetically appealing, these snails provide several benefits to the aquarium:
- Cleaning algae: They help keep the walls and bottom of the aquarium free of algae.
- Pest control: They may prey on eggs of other unwanted species.
- Ecosystem stability: Its omnivorous diet contributes to the natural balance of the tank.
It is important to remember that although they are beneficial, their population must be controlled to prevent them from becoming a pest.
El ram's horn snail It is an excellent addition to any aquarium, not only for its unique beauty, but also for the benefits it brings to the tank's ecosystem. With proper care, this species can thrive and become an essential part of your aquarium.