Overview
The Gold Spotted Rabbit Snail (Tylomelania towutensis), sometimes referred to as the Posio snail, is a highly sought-after freshwater snail known for its unique appearance and peaceful demeanor. Native to the warm, alkaline waters of Indonesia, it is a fantastic addition to specialized tropical aquariums.
Distribution and Habitat
Endemic to the Malili lake system in Sulawesi, Indonesia, specifically Lake Towuti. These snails inhabit warm, clear, and highly alkaline waters with rocky or sandy substrates where they forage for detritus and soft algae.
Description of Tylomelania towutensis
As seen in the close-up images, this species features a long, conical shell that is dark brown to black with heavy texturing and whorls. The most striking feature is its foot and head, which are deep black covered in vibrant, contrasting gold or yellow spots. They have a distinct, elongated snout resembling a rabbit, which gives them their common name.
Keeping and Caring for Tylomelania towutensis
Caring for these snails requires attention to their specific water requirements, as they are less tolerant of poor water quality or acidic conditions than common aquarium snails.
Tank size:
A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended. They can grow up to 3-4 inches in length and need plenty of floor space to roam and forage.
Water Parameters:
Replicating the Sulawesi lake environment is crucial for their long-term health.
Temperature
77°F - 86°F (25°C - 30°C). They thrive in warmer waters.
pH
7.5 - 8.5. Acidic water will erode their shells and lead to health issues.
Hardness
KH 4-8 dKH and GH 4-10 dGH. Adequate calcium is necessary for shell maintenance.
Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate
Ammonia and Nitrite must be 0 ppm. Nitrates should be kept as low as possible, ideally below 20 ppm.
Feeding the Tylomelania towutensis
They are omnivorous scavengers. In the aquarium, they will readily accept sinking pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables (like zucchini, spinach, and cucumber), and powdered invert foods. They also continuously graze on biofilm and decaying plant matter.
Breeding Tylomelania towutensis
Breeding is slow but possible in home aquariums. Tylomelania are viviparous (livebearers). They reproduce slowly, typically releasing only one fully formed juvenile snail at a time, encased in a milky white sac that the baby quickly consumes.
Conclusion
The Gold Spotted Rabbit Snail is a truly magnificent specimen for the dedicated aquarist. While they require specific water parameters to mimic their native Sulawesi habitat, their gentle nature and spectacular gold-spotted appearance make them well worth the effort.
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