Engina sp.

Datasheet

General Description

The Bumble Bee Snail, scientifically known as Engina sp., is a tiny marine snail species that plays a vital role in maintaining marine reef aquariums. With a striking black shell adorned with elegant white to yellow bands, this snail adds beauty to the aquarium environment. Belonging to the Buccinidae family, the Bumble Bee Snail is adept at cleaning away detritus, uneaten foods, decomposing matter, and sand-dwelling worms, contributing to the overall cleanliness of the tank.

Aquarium Suitability

Due to its peaceful nature and ease of care, the Bumble Bee Snail is suitable for beginner marine aquarists. However, it is important to provide ample hiding spots and live rock for foraging. This snail should be kept away from copper-based medications and maintained in stable water conditions to thrive successfully.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

The Bumble Bee Snail is relatively easy to care for but is sensitive to high nitrate levels and fluctuations in water parameters. It is a carnivorous species that feeds on detritus, meaty foods, and live rock organisms. Supplemental feeding may be required if natural food sources are insufficient. Regular monitoring of water quality is crucial to ensure the well-being of these snails in the aquarium.

Reef Suitability

Reef aquarists will find the Bumble Bee Snail beneficial as it is reef-compatible and contributes to the overall cleanliness of the tank. Its ability to clean away debris and aerate the substrate makes it a valuable addition to reef ecosystems.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up the aquarium for Bumble Bee Snails, provide hiding places and ample roaming space. Ensure there are live rock and deep sand beds where the snails can forage for food undisturbed. Maintaining stable water parameters with a pH of 8.1-8.4, a salinity of 1.023-1.025, and a carbonate hardness of 8-12 dKH is essential for their well-being.

Behaviour

Known for their peaceful temperament, Bumble Bee Snails tend to be good tank mates with other marine species. However, they may consume other snails or polychaetes if food sources are insufficient. Observing their scavenging behavior can be fascinating for aquarium enthusiasts.

Feeding and Diet

As carnivores, Bumble Bee Snails primarily feed on detritus and meaty foods found in live rock and sand beds. Supplementary feeding with finely chopped brine or mysis shrimp and frozen meaty foods is recommended if natural food sources are limited.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

The Bumble Bee Snail is extremely challenging to breed in aquarium settings, mainly due to the lack of distinguishing characteristics between male and female individuals. Captive reproduction of these snails is rare, with most specimens being wild-caught.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, Bumble Bee Snails can be found in various marine habitats, including reef environments. Their distribution spans across regions where suitable conditions exist for their survival. In aquariums, they mimic their natural behavior by foraging for food and engaging in substrate aeration activities.