Astrea Snail

The Astrea Snail (Astraea tecta), also known as the Astraea Conehead Snail or Star Snail, is a marine gastropod renowned for its algae-eating capabilities, making it a valuable addition to reef aquariums.

Essential Information

• Common Names: Astrea Snail, Astraea Conehead Snail, Star Snail
• Scientific Name: Astraea tecta
• Family: Trochidae
• Origin/Habitat: Primarily found in the shallow coastal waters of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and the western Atlantic Ocean.
• Maximum Size: Typically grows up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
• Lifespan: With proper care, they can live between 3 to 5 years in captivity.
• Level of Difficulty: Easy; suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists.
• Reef Safe: Yes; they are peaceful and do not harm corals or other reef inhabitants.

Appearance & Physical Traits

• Coloration & Pattern: Astrea Snails possess a sharp conical shell that can vary in color from white to purple and orange, often influenced by coralline algae growth.
• Body Shape & Structure: They have a distinctive sharp conical shell circled by a large ridge, making them easily identifiable.

Habitat & Environmental Needs

• Minimum Tank Size: A well-established aquarium of at least 10 gallons (38 liters) is recommended to provide adequate space and stable water conditions.
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 72°F and 78°F (22°C to 26°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.024 to 1.026.
• Aquascape: Provide ample live rock and a sandy substrate to offer grazing surfaces and hiding spots.

Diet & Feeding

• Diet Type: Herbivorous; primarily consumes various forms of algae.
• Preferred Foods: Feeds on detritus and uneaten food.
• Feeding Frequency: In a well-established aquarium with sufficient algae growth, they typically do not require supplemental feeding.

Behavior & Compatibility

• Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive; spends much of the day grazing on algae.
• Social Behavior: Compatible with a wide range of reef-safe fish and invertebrates.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Avoid housing with aggressive predators that may prey on snails.
• Activity Level: Primarily active during nighttime hours.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes

• Ease of Care: Easy; thrives in stable, mature reef aquariums with appropriate grazing surfaces.
• Special Requirements: Astrea Snails require calcium carbonate to build their shells; ensure proper calcium levels are provided. If an Astrea Snail is found upside down, you must turn them upright as they are unable to right themselves and will drown.
• Breeding Info: Breeding in captivity is rare and not well-documented.
• Additional Notes: Monitor their population to prevent overstocking, which can lead to insufficient food sources and increased competition.