Nassarius sp.

Datasheet

General Description

The Super Tongan Nassarius Snail, scientifically known as Nassarius sp., is a marine invertebrate characterized by its oval, spiral shell, reaching sizes of up to 1" to 2.5cm. One of its most distinctive features is the elongated, tube-like siphon protruding from its shell, used for breathing while buried in substrate.

Aquarium Suitability

The Super Tongan Nassarius Snail is considered suitable for aquariums, especially in larger marine reef systems, due to its scavenging abilities. They help maintain oxygen levels by burrowing in substrate and are efficient detritus eaters, requiring a well-established tank with live rock and ample sand substrate.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

This species is relatively easy to care for but sensitive to copper-based medications and high nitrate levels. Acclimation should be gradual using methods like drip acclimation due to their intolerance to water parameter fluctuations. They thrive in stable conditions with a pH of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.023-1.025, and a carbonate hardness of 8-12.

Reef Suitability

The Super Tongan Nassarius Snail is reef-compatible, making them a valuable addition to reef aquariums. Their peaceful temperament and scavenging behavior make them beneficial for maintaining a clean substrate in reef environments.

Aquarium Setup

For the optimal setup to accommodate Super Tongan Nassarius Snails, a marine aquarium with live rock, a sand substrate, and established sand beds are essential. Additionally, maintaining proper water parameters and supplementing their diet with frozen meaty foods like brine or mysis shrimp is recommended if natural food sources are scarce.

Behaviour

These snails have a keen sense of smell, quickly detecting food sources in the aquarium. Their burying and sifting behavior in the substrate can be fascinating to observe, especially when they emerge to feed on added food, causing the sand to boil with activity.

Feeding and Diet

Typically carnivorous and omnivorous, the Super Tongan Nassarius Snail feeds on detritus, waste, and uneaten food within the substrate. While they can usually find enough food in established sand beds, supplementing their diet with meaty foods is advised if needed.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

The breeding of Super Tongan Nassarius Snails in captivity is exceptionally challenging, with limited information on dimorphism present within the species.

Habitat and Distribution

Nassarius sp. is commonly found in coastal zones across most oceans. The Super Tongan Nassarius Snail specifically hails from Tonga, known for its striking beauty, scavenging abilities, and unique shell structure resembling an ornate olive pit.