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Freshwater fishJapanese Trapdoor Snail
Japanese Trapdoor Snail
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The trapdoor snail, or Japanese trapdoor snail, is a hardy species and popular in freshwater aquariums and ponds. These snails are good scavengers that can live through a wide range of temperatures, including northern winters.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Cipangopaludina japonica (sold as Viviparus malleatus) |
| Origin | East Asia (Japan, China, Korea); farm-raised |
| Care Level | Easy, good for beginners and ponds |
| Temperament | Peaceful; plant-safe |
| Adult Size | Up to 2" |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
| Diet | Scavenger (algae and leftover food) |
| Water Temperature | 40–82°F (survives pond winters) |
| pH | 7.0–8.5 |
| Breeding | Livebearer; produces small numbers of live young |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 1" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Japanese trapdoor snails are hardy coldwater snails that do well in aquariums and outdoor ponds year-round. Give them a mature tank or pond with some algae and detritus to graze, and keep the water hard enough for healthy shells.
Feeding: They graze on algae and leftover food and filter food from the water. In a clean aquarium, add algae wafers or sinking pellets.
Tankmates: They do well with goldfish, koi and other peaceful fish in ponds and aquariums. Avoid puffers and snail-eating loaches.
Good to know: Japanese trapdoor snails are invasive in parts of the U.S., and some states restrict them. Never release snails into the wild, and check local rules before adding them to an outdoor pond that connects to natural waters.
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