Nassarius snail

Nassarius distortus · Nassariidae

Also known as Sand-sifting snail

Beginner

Lives buried in the sand and emerges to clear uneaten food; keeps the bed turned over.

In short: A nassarius snail needs at least 40 L (11 US gal), water at 24–28 °C (75–82 °F) and pH 8.1–8.4. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 3 or more, and rated beginner to keep.

Updated 6 October 2026

Minimum tank: 40 L (11 US gal)
Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Adult size: 3 cm (1.2 in)
Group size: 3+

Reef & marine husbandry

Specific gravity: 1.024–1.026
Reef safety: Reef safe
With corals: Reef safe.
With inverts: Peaceful.
Minimum in a mixed reef: 40 L (11 US gal)
Minimum fish-only (FOWLR): 40 L (11 US gal)
Aggression: None.
Feeding: Lives on leftovers.

Care requirements

Minimum tank volume: 40 L (11 US gal)
Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Hardness: 8–12 dGH
Lifespan: 1–3 years
Diet: Detritivore/carnivore — leftover food, detritus, dead matter.
Care level: Beginner

Origin & habitat

Native region: Indo-Pacific
Water type: Saltwater
Biotope: Sandy reef flats
Natural conditions: Sand bed at least 5 cm deep; stable salinity.

Behaviour & stocking

Temperament: Peaceful
Minimum group: 3 fish
Swims: Bottom
Good tank mates: Gobies
Clownfish
Cleaner shrimp
Avoid: Puffers
Triggers

Breeding & difficulty

Breeding difficulty: Advanced
Sexing: Not practical to sex.
Notes: Not bred at home.
Common ailments: Starvation in very clean tanks
Copper poisoning

Will it fit your tank?

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