Snails for the 160g

[Adamas]

What type of snails and how many should I buy when my tank finish the cycle ?

Thanks

 

[ChrisRD]

I prefer a mix of species like Mexican Turbos, Trochus, Margaritas, Ceriths, etc. so you have your bases covered on different types of algaes and surfaces (ie. rock, glass, etc.). Species that will reproduce readily in your tank like Stomatellas are also nice. They provide some natural food for the tank as well as self-sustaining populations. If you have a sandbed some Nassarius would be good too. Conchs are good too but I don't prefer them as they get large quickly (avoid Queen Conchs IMO - they just get too big too soon) and have a tendency to knock frags over because of their size and the way they move.

IMO how many really depends on the tank - every setup has different needs depending on how it's run, types of algae present, nutrient levels, etc. Also depends on which species - obviously larger species eat more so you don't need as many. I prefer to start out with a relatively small number of each and see how it goes. I'd rather add a few more later than have too many and starve a bunch of snails to death over time.

JMO...

 

[Anonymous]

I totally agree on the mix. I mostly keep snails that can reproduce in my system though; Cerith, Colonista, Stomatella, Head-Shield, Limpets

 

[Entacmaea]

I agree whole-heartedly with Chris on the go-slow don't starve your critters method. www.etropicals.com (part of fosters and smith) has a great build-your-own package with free shipping over $60. Pretty good deal and scalable as you go along and learn the needs of your tank.

 

[Anonymous]

Here's what I have in my 300G:

12-Astrea's
4-Mexican Turbo's
12 - Cerinth Snails
10 - Huge Mexican Turbos'

Don't listen to anyone who tell you that you need one or two per gallon. That's bull IMHO. I had people try to tell me I needed between 500 - 750 in my tank (total system is 475g). There's no way I need anywhere near that many.

Louey