Conomurex luhuanus

Datasheet

General Description

The Orange Lip Conch (Conomurex luhuanus) is a marine gastropod known for its striking appearance, featuring a shell with a thick whorled shape in white accented with an orange or tan mottled exterior. Internally, this snail boasts a vivid orange or pink interior with a dark-colored inner lip. Equipped with robust eyesight and regenerative sensory tentacles, these snails are adept at locating food and detecting predators. Their mode of movement involves a leaping action facilitated by a modified foot, particularly useful for evading threats.

Aquarium Suitability

With a peaceful temperament and a preference for sandy substrates, the Orange Lip Conch is well-suited for aquariums. Its omnivorous diet, comprising algae, detritus, and supplemental feedings of algae pellets, seaweed, and small fish, makes it relatively easy to care for. Additionally, they are sensitive to copper and nitrates, necessitating pristine water conditions.

Care and Hardiness

This species of conch is considered easy to care for, with minimal demands in terms of habitat and diet. Given their peaceful nature, they make excellent additions to community tanks. They thrive in water with a pH ranging from 8.1 to 8.4, a carbonate hardness of 8-12 dKH, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.

Reef Suitability

Reef enthusiasts will appreciate the Orange Lip Conch's compatibility with reef setups. Their algae-eating habits make them valuable additions to reef tanks, aiding in algae control while also posing no threat to coral or other reef inhabitants.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for the Orange Lip Conch, provide a sandy substrate for burrowing and ample space for foraging. Offering hiding spots and incorporating live rock structures can enhance their environment. Maintaining stable water parameters and cleanliness is crucial to their well-being.

Behaviour

These snails exhibit peaceful behavior and are known to form colonies in their natural habitat, moving gracefully among sandy substrates. Their scavenging nature contributes to the overall cleanliness of the aquarium, making them beneficial tank mates for various fish species.

Feeding and Diet

As omnivores, Orange Lip Conchs feed on algae, detritus, and microorganisms present in the substrate. Supplement their diet with algae pellets, seaweed, and small, appropriate-sized fish to ensure optimal nutrition.

Dimorphism

Though not visually distinct, male and female Orange Lip Conchs can be differentiated through closer examination or observation of their reproductive behaviors. Captive reproduction of these snails can be achieved under suitable conditions.

Habitat and Distribution

In their natural habitat, Orange Lip Conchs are commonly found in colonies among sandy substrates in tropical marine environments. Their distribution spans regions where suitable conditions for their survival and reproduction exist.