Trochus snail

Trochus niloticus · Trochidae

Also known as Banded trochus

Beginner

Grazes film algae, tolerates warm reef temperatures and can right itself if it falls.

In short: A trochus 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, kept in pairs 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: 5 cm (2 in)
Group size: 2+

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: Film algae plus nori.

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: 2–4 years
Diet: Herbivore — film algae, diatoms, nori.
Care level: Beginner

Origin & habitat

Native region: Indo-Pacific
Water type: Saltwater
Biotope: Shallow reef rock
Natural conditions: Stable salinity, mature rock.

Behaviour & stocking

Temperament: Peaceful
Minimum group: 2 fish
Swims: Bottom
Good tank mates: Clownfish
Gobies
Tangs
Avoid: Puffers
Triggers
Large hermits

Breeding & difficulty

Breeding difficulty: Intermediate
Sexing: Not practical to sex.
Notes: Sometimes spawns in mature reefs; juveniles appear on glass.
Common ailments: Starvation
Copper poisoning

Will it fit your tank?

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