Cerith Snail (Cerithium sp.)
Max Size: 1 1/2 inches
Diet: Omnivore
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
The Cerith Snail may appear small in size, but its capabilities go far beyond its appearance. With its beautiful, elongated spiral shell, this lively scavenger possesses the ability to consume significant quantities of detritus, leftover food, fish waste, and algae. Additionally, this particular species from the Cerithium genus has a tendency to burrow into the sand of your aquarium, contributing to the maintenance of proper oxygen levels in the substrate.
Originally hailing from the Caribbean and the Eastern Pacific regions near Mexico's coast, the Cerith Snail thrives best in larger, well-established reef systems that possess deep sand beds. Its most active period occurs during the nighttime hours. Fascinatingly, when it comes to breeding, pairs of Cerith Snails deposit their eggs on the aquarium glass in long, stringy curves shortly after darkness descends. However, due to the extended development time of these eggs, they often fall prey to other tank inhabitants or get eliminated from the water column through filtration before they can hatch. Breeding the Cerith Snail in captivity poses considerable challenges. Apart from the difficulties involved in determining the sexes, the precise water parameters necessary for successful breeding remain unknown.
Similar to other invertebrates, the Cerith Snail displays sensitivity towards high nitrate levels and medications containing copper. It also necessitates a gradual acclimation process, preferably using the drip acclimation method, as it is highly responsive to even slight fluctuations in water conditions.
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