Haustellum haustellum

Haustellum haustellum – Snipe's Beak Murex Snail

Haustellum haustellum, commonly known as the snipe's beak murex snail or sometimes the trochus snail, is a marine gastropod native to the shallow waters of the Indian Ocean, the Pacific, and the China Sea. As an adult, it can reach up to 15 cm, making it a substantial snail in a reef aquarium.

An elongated and elegant shell

Its spiral shell with a pointed end gives it a characteristic and decorative appearance. Although it is peaceful, it should not be introduced into a tank with a high population of hermit crabs, as they might attack its shell or flesh.

An efficient grazer for algae control

Haustellum haustellum is a very good algae grazer. It primarily feeds on algae present on live rocks, the tank walls, and the substrate. It is particularly useful in reef tanks that require natural regulation of the plant microflora.

Maintenance conditions

• Minimum recommended volume: 150 liters
• Temperature: 23°C to 27°C
• pH: 8.0 to 8.4
• Behavior: calm, useful, sensitive to aggression
• Compatibility: avoid with a high population of hermit crabs

Feeding

• Encrusting algae on the décor
• Microalgae on the substrate
• Possible supplement with nori algae if little growth

This gastropod is perfectly autonomous if the tank contains a good growth of natural algae, but will appreciate additional plant inputs if the décor is too clean.

Why choose Haustellum haustellum?

• Long and decorative shell
• Excellent algae grazer
• Native to shallow tropical marine areas
• Easy to acclimate in a reef tank
• Perfect for large tanks with few competitors

Haustellum haustellum is a useful, aesthetic, and low-maintenance snail, perfect for aquarists looking to combine anti-algae efficiency with biological diversity. Handle with care if your tank houses a large population of hermit crabs.