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Freshwater fishDevil Thorn Snail
Devil Thorn Snail
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The devil thorn snail is a conical-shaped, peaceful snail that grows to three inches. Devil thorn snails are named for the long, horn-shaped shell, similar in shape to trumpet snails but a much deeper color. Like nerite snails, devil thorn snails must breed in saltwater, so they will not lay eggs and take over the aquarium. These snails will be fine in any size tank with any but the largest, most aggressive species. ALSO, like nerite snails, devil thorn snails, also called lava snails, will not do well in high pH; a pH of 8 or higher will kill them.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Faunus ater |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific (Philippines and Indonesia; wild-caught) |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful; plant-safe |
| Adult Size | Up to 3" |
| Lifespan | 2–4 years |
| Diet | Algae eater (also eats algae wafers) |
| Water Temperature | 72–82°F |
| pH | 6.5–7.8 |
| Breeding | Larvae need brackish water, so it won't breed in freshwater |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 1½" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Give devil thorn snails a mature tank with a sand bottom they can burrow in and plenty of algae and biofilm to graze. Keep the water stable and avoid sudden pH swings.
Feeding: They graze on algae and leftover food. Also feed algae wafers or sinking pellets.
Tankmates: They do well with peaceful fish, shrimp and other snails. Avoid puffers, loaches and assassin snails.
Good to know: Devil thorn snails often bury themselves in the sand during the day and come out to graze at night.
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