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Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 113 litres / 29.85 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 10.2cm / 4.02inches |
| Reef Compatible | With Caution |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Care Description | Easy |
| Specific Gravity | 1.023-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description:The Ring Cowrie (Monetaria annulus) is a striking marine snail known for its elegant appearance and unique movements. With a smooth, glossy shell predominantly off-white or pale yellowish in color, adorned with distinctive yellow or orange stripes, these snails create a captivating sight in any aquarium.
Aquarium Suitability:With its peaceful temperament and manageable care demands, Ring Cowries are suitable for marine aquarists of various experience levels. However, breeding them can be challenging due to specific requirements and conditions.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness:Categorized as easy to care for, Ring Cowries thrive in marine aquariums with stable water parameters. A tank of at least 30 gallons is recommended to provide ample space for exploration. Maintaining stable salinity, temperature levels, and regular water quality checks are crucial.
Reef Suitability:Ring Cowries are classified as reef-compatible with caution, as they can potentially disturb corals or sessile invertebrates. Careful observation and monitoring in a reef setting are advisable.
Aquarium Setup:To create an optimal habitat for Ring Cowries, an established marine aquarium with stable conditions is essential. Include live rock for grazing, ensure a well-established algae source, and maintain an environment that mimics their natural habitat.
Behaviour:These snails exhibit peaceful behavior in the aquarium, often moving gracefully across surfaces as they feed on algae. They are best kept in a serene environment that allows them to forage naturally.
Feeding and Diet:As herbivores, Ring Cowries primarily feed on algae. Provide a consistent source of marine algae, seaweed sheets, and supplement their diet with high-quality marine algae to ensure their nutritional needs are met.
Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction:Ring Cowries reproduce via free-swimming larvae, making breeding challenging in home aquariums. Successful breeding is more likely in mature reef setups with abundant natural food sources.
Habitat and Distribution:The Ring Cowrie is found in various marine habitats, often in the Indo-Pacific region. Their distribution spans from East Africa to the Central Pacific, inhabiting shallow reefs and rocky coastal areas.