Mystery snail
Pomacea bridgesii · Ampullariidae
Also known as Apple snail, Golden mystery snail
Beginner
A large, colourful snail that eats leftovers and algae without destroying live plants.
In short: A mystery snail needs at least 40 L (11 US gal), water at 20–28 °C (68–82 °F) and pH 7–8.2. It is peaceful, usually kept singly, and rated beginner to keep.
- Minimum tank
- 40 L (11 US gal)
- Temperature
- 20–28 °C (68–82 °F)
- pH
- 7–8.2
- Adult size
- 5 cm (2 in)
- Group size
- 1+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 40 L (11 US gal)
- Temperature
- 20–28 °C (68–82 °F)
- pH
- 7–8.2
- Hardness
- 8–20 dGH
- Lifespan
- 1–3 years
- Diet
- Omnivore/detritivore — leftovers, algae, blanched veg, calcium-rich food.
- Care level
- Beginner
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- South America
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Slow vegetated waters
- Natural conditions
- Hard alkaline water; an air gap above the waterline for laying eggs.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 1 fish
- Swims
- All levels
- Good tank mates
- Community fishShrimpCorydoras
- Avoid
- LoachesPuffersCopper medication
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Beginner
- Sexing
- Not reliably sexable without inspection.
- Notes
- Lays pink egg clutches above the waterline.
- Common ailments
- Shell erosion in soft waterDrowning in fully sealed tanks
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