Rabbit snail

Tylomelania geminata

InvertebrateFreshwater

The rabbit snail has a conical, dark brown to black shell with visible growth lines. It can reach 8 cm in length. Its body is dark gray with long, thin tentacles. Unlike many snails, it is viviparous: it gives birth to fully formed young. It moves by burrowing into the substrate in search of food. It is a hardy species but sensitive to high nitrates. In the aquarium, it often remains visible and explores the decor.

Recommended parameters

ParameterRecommended range
Temperature24–28
pH7.5–8.5
GH8–15
KH5–10
NO₃≤ 10
PO₄≤ 0.2

Care

Difficulty2/5
Dietherbivore
Min. tank40 L
Min. group1
Adult size8 cm
Lifespan3 ans
Temperamentpeaceful

Care notes

Keep the rabbit snail in an aquarium of at least 40 L with hard, alkaline water (pH 7.5–8.5, GH 8–15). The ideal temperature is 24–28 °C. A sandy or fine substrate is recommended to allow burrowing. It feeds on algae, blanched vegetables, and bottom-feeder pellets. Avoid high nitrate levels (max 10 mg/L). It cohabits peacefully with fish and non-aggressive invertebrates. Reproduction is slow, with births every 1–2 months.