Phoebe snail

Astraea phoebia

Family : Turbinidae

InvertebrateMarinesnail

Small marine herbivorous snail, very effective for algae control. Ideal for reef aquariums.

Popularity

Marine snail

reef algivore

Availability

Common in shops

Shop availability

IUCN Status

Not Evaluated

Description

Astraea phoebia has a conical, robust shell, white to cream with brown patterns. Adult size does not exceed 3 cm. It moves slowly on rocks and glass, grazing on filamentous algae and diatoms. It is nocturnal, hiding in crevices during the day. It is completely peaceful and does not harm corals. It can reproduce in aquaria by laying egg capsules. Lifespan is 2-3 years.

Habitat

Region :

Rocky bottoms, coral reefs

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature22–28 °C

pH8.1–8.4

GH8–12 °dGH

KH7–12 °dKH

NO₃

≤ 20 mg/L

PO₄

≤ 0.2 mg/L

Care

Difficulty

1/5

Diet

Herbivore

Min. tank

40 L

Min. group

Adult size

3 cm

Lifespan

3 years

Temperament

Peaceful

Propagation

egg laying

Care notes

Temperature 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. A tank of at least 40 L is sufficient. No special lighting required, but moderate light promotes algae growth. Feed with natural algae or algae wafers if needed. Avoid high nitrate (max 20 ppm) and phosphate levels. Compatible with all peaceful fish and invertebrates. Beware of predators like pufferfish or crabs.

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