Queen Conch

Aliger gigas

Origin	Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, Western Atlantic
Maximum Length	Up to 12 inches (shell)
Minimum Tank Size	100 gallons (large sand bed)
Reef Compatibility	Yes — excellent sand-bed cleaner

Behavior

The Queen Conch is a large, iconic Caribbean sea snail famous for its beautiful flaring pink-lipped shell. In the aquarium it is a powerful and effective sand-bed cleaner, plowing through the substrate to consume algae, diatoms, cyanobacteria, and detritus. It moves in a distinctive “hopping” motion using its strong, clawed foot. Juveniles are commonly sold for reef tanks; buyers should note the species grows large and needs a substantial sand bed and tank to thrive long-term. It is peaceful and reef safe.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivore/detritivore. Grazes microalgae, diatoms, cyanobacteria, and detritus from the sand bed and rock. Supplement with dried seaweed (nori) placed on the sand, especially in cleaner tanks with limited algae.

Cautions

Grows large — a juvenile needs an eventual home with a deep, wide sand bed and a large tank. Requires an established system with enough algae and detritus to graze, or it may starve. Cannot always right itself if flipped; check periodically. Keep away from shell-crushing predators (large triggers, puffers). Sensitive to copper.