Trochus Snail

Tectus niloticus

Origin	Indo-Pacific reefs
Maximum Length	2–3 inches
Minimum Tank Size	20 gallons
Reef Compatibility	Yes — one of the best reef cleanup snails

Behavior

The Trochus Snail is one of the most valued members of the reef cleanup crew. With its pyramid-shaped, cone-like shell, it grazes tirelessly over rock, glass, and substrate consuming film algae, diatoms, hair algae, and cyanobacteria. It is hardy, reef safe, and unlike many snails it can right itself if it tumbles off the rockwork — a big advantage over Astrea and turbo snails. Trochus will also breed in the aquarium, occasionally producing juveniles. Peaceful and beneficial, it is a workhorse grazer for any reef tank.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivore. Grazes film algae, diatoms, hair algae, and cyanobacteria from rock and glass. In very clean tanks with little algae, supplement with dried seaweed (nori) on the sand or a clip.

Cautions

Needs algae to graze; may starve in a brand-new or spotless tank. Sensitive to copper and to sudden salinity or temperature swings — drip acclimate slowly. Keep away from shell-crushing predators (large crabs, puffers, triggers). Peaceful and safe with all corals and tank mates.