Ramshorns pose a minor threat to planted aquariums. Ramshorn snails are omnivorous and will consume plants and food meant for other invertebrates. Any excess food should be removed from the tank as to not encourage population outbreak. They will compete with other beneficial snails and shrimp for food, potentially starving them if their populations become too large.
Ramshorn Snails species can be classified into three main size groups. Species such as Gyraulus albus or 'White Ramshorn Snail' only grow up to 1/3 of an inch in size. At the opposite end of the specturm Planorbarius corneus 'Great Ramshorn Snail' can grow to almost 1 1/2" in diameter.
Ramshorn Snails will lay batches of eggs around the aquarium. They can be seen with the naked eye and should be removed. Removing the eggs from the aquarium is not a viable way of eradicating the problem. Ramshorn snails will lay eggs on plants, substrate and hardscape. This makes it nearly impossible to completely remove this snail.
An effective method in removing Ramshorn Snails includes baiting the snails. Blanched vegetables or large pellets should be placed in the aquarium at night. Early in the morning the Ramshorn snails can be easily harvested and disposed of.
Ramshorn snails do receive a bad reputation, but in smaller numbers they can aid reducing aquarium nitrates. The main problem with Ramshorn snails is their ability to reproduce so rapidly. By ensuring not to overfeed the aquarium it can aid in slowing their development and keeping populations under control.
Temperature ~75°F
Ramshorn Snails will often flourish in temperatures around 70°F - 80°F (21°C-27°C).
pH ~7.5
Ramshorn Snails are most likely found in pH neutral aquariums.
3/8 - 6/8"
Ramshorn Snails species vary in size, the smallest grow to just 1/4" while the largest can grow to 1"+.
Nitrite 0ppm
Nitrite should always be 0.
Ammonia 0ppm
Ramshorn Snails are sensitive to ammonia spikes and copper additives.
Nitrate >40ppm
Nitrates should be as close to 0ppm as possible. Ramshorn Snails consume debris contributing to lower nitrates but are sensitive to high nitrate levels.
How to avoid
Ramshorn Snails can arrive in the aquarium through a number of ways. Unfortunately once in the aquarium using commercial pesticides will have detrimental impact upon shrimp and other invertebrates. Aquatic plants are the most likely to be hijacked. They should be thoroughly rinsed in a commercial sanitizer before being placed in the aquarium. Hardscape such as driftwood and rocks can also carry the eggs. They are very small in size and hence it is recommended to also soak anything that goes into the tank in a pesticide.
Feeding
Ramshorn Snails sometimes need supplemental food. Ramshorn Snails can simply be fed commercial flake and pellet food. Ramshorn snails will consume boiled vegetables such as zucchini.
Breeding
Ramshorn Snails are extremely easy to breed. They will reproduce in any aquarium with water and food. Their ease of reproduction can lead to issues with over population. They can become a pest and are hard to eradicate if populations become large. When keeping Ramshorn Snails it is recommended to start with very few snails and ensure not to overfeed the aquarium. Remain vigilant by removing snails if the population begins to increase.
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