Red Ramshorn Snail

Planorbis rubrum

Family : Planorbidae

InvertebrateFreshwatersnail

The Red Ramshorn Snail is a small freshwater snail very popular in aquariums, recognizable by its bright red spiral shell. It is easy to keep and helps maintain aquarium balance by consuming algae.

Popularity
Freshwater snail
algivore or detritivore
Availability
Common in shops
Shop availability
IUCN Status
NE
Not Evaluated
Biotope
South America
Hors bassin amazonien : Paraná, Orénoque, Andes.

Description

The Red Ramshorn Snail has a flat spiral shell, typical of Planorbidae, with a diameter of 2-3 cm. Its bright red color is due to a genetic mutation. It moves slowly on surfaces and plants. It is a hermaphrodite capable of self-fertilization, which can lead to rapid proliferation. It is mainly active at night. It feeds on algae, detritus, and leftover food. Its presence is beneficial for the aquarium ecosystem.

Habitat

Region :

Calm waters, ponds, dense vegetation

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2028 °C
pH6.58
GH515 °dGH
KH310 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 40 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 2 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
1/5
Diet
Omnivore
Min. tank
10 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
2.5 cm
Lifespan
1.5 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation
Eggs

Care notes

The Red Ramshorn Snail is very easy to keep. It accepts a wide range of parameters: temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. A tank of at least 10 liters is sufficient. It feeds on algae, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and fish pellets. It is peaceful and compatible with most fish and shrimp. Avoid fish that may eat it (loaches, cichlids). It can multiply quickly if food is abundant. Population control may be necessary. It does not require a specific substrate.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References