Bumblebee Snail

The Bumble Bee Snail (Engina mendicaria) is a small, attractive marine gastropod known for its distinctive black and yellow banded shell. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, these snails are valued in reef aquariums for their scavenging habits and ability to control certain pest populations.

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Bumble Bee Snail
• Scientific Name: Engina mendicaria
• Family: Buccinidae
• Origin/Habitat: Indo-Pacific region, typically found in intertidal zones around reefs
• Maximum Size: Up to 1 inch (2.5 cm)
• Lifespan: Approximately 2 years in captivity
• Level of Difficulty: Easy; suitable for beginners
• Reef Safe: Yes; generally considered reef-safe

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: Distinctive black shell with yellow or white bands, resembling a bumblebee
• Body Shape & Structure: Small, conical shell; compact and sturdy

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons (19 liters)
• Water Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Level: 8.1–8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.023–1.025
• Aquascape: Provide ample live rock and a deep sand bed to facilitate natural foraging behavior

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Carnivorous
• Preferred Foods: Feeds on detritus, uneaten meaty foods, and small invertebrates such as polychaete worms; does not consume algae
• Feeding Frequency: Typically sustains itself on available food in the aquarium; supplemental feeding is usually unnecessary

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Peaceful; poses no threat to other tank inhabitants
• Social Behavior: Solitary; does not require companions and may exhibit territorial behavior towards other snails
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Compatible with most reef-safe fish and invertebrates; caution is advised when housing with aggressive species
• Activity Level: Primarily nocturnal; most active during nighttime hours

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: Hardy and low-maintenance, making them suitable for aquarists of all experience levels
• Special Requirements: Regular monitoring of water parameters is essential; ensure a well-established tank with stable conditions
• Breeding Info: Breeding in captivity is rare and not well-documented
• Additional Notes: While Bumble Bee Snails are beneficial for controlling certain pests and consuming detritus, it's important to monitor their behavior, especially in tanks with limited food sources, as they may resort to eating other desirable organisms if underfed