Red Ramshorn Snail

Planorbis rubrum

InvertebrateFreshwater

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.

Recommended parameters

ParameterRecommended range
Temperature20–28
pH6.5–8
GH5–15
KH3–10
NO₃≤ 40
PO₄≤ 2

Care

Difficulty1/5
Dietomnivore
Min. tank10 L
Min. group1
Adult size2.5 cm
Lifespan1.5 ans
TemperamentPeaceful

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.