The Assassin Snail (Clea helena) is a predatory snail that feeds on other snail species. It is a small brown snail with a long thin and sharp proboscis. The Assassin Snail is native to Southeast Asia but has been introduced to other parts of the world through the aquarium trade.
Assassin Snails kill their prey by drilling a hole through the shell with their proboscis. They then insert their radula (a ribbon-like tongue with rows of sharp teeth) into the shell and feed on the snail inside. The Assassin Snail will sometimes eat the entire snail but usually just the soft tissue and organs.
The Assassin Snail is not selective in its diet and will eat most species of snails. It is especially fond of Ramshorn Snails (Planorbidae family) and Malaysian Trumpet Snails (Melanoides tuberculata).
Assassin Snails are not harmful to humans and can actually be beneficial to the aquarium as they help control snail populations. However they may eat beneficial snails such as Nerite Snails (Neritina natalensis) and Mystery Snails (Pomacea diffusa). It is best to only keep one Assassin Snail per aquarium as they may eat each other if food is scarce.
Assassin Snails can reproduce both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction requires a male and female snail and can result in up to 30 offspring. Asexual reproduction or parthenogenesis only requires a female snail and can result in up to 60 offspring.
The Assassin Snail is a fascinating creatures that can be a helpful addition to the aquarium. They are not selective in their diet and will help control snail populations. However they may also eat beneficial snails so it is best to only keep one per aquarium.
What is an assassin snail?
An assassin snail is a predatory freshwater snail that feeds on other snails.
How does an assassin snail kill other snails?
The assassin snail uses a sharp saw-like tooth to bore a hole through the shell of its prey.
It then insert its proboscis into the body of the snail and sucks out the tissues.
What is the scientific name for an assassin snail?
The scientific name for an assassin snail is Clea helena.
What is the natural habitat of an assassin snail?
The natural habitat of an assassin snail is in freshwater ponds lakes and streams in Southeast Asia.
How big can an assassin snail get?
Assassin snails can grow up to 2 inches in length.
What do assassin snails eat?
In addition to eating other snails assassin snails will also eat bloodworms brine shrimp and other small invertebrates.
Are assassin snails harmful to humans?
No assassin snails are not harmful to humans.
How long do assassin snails live?
Assassin snails can live up to 3 years.
What is the lifespan of an assassin snail?
The lifespan of an assassin snail is up to 3 years.
Do assassin snails reproduce?
Yes assassin snails reproduce by laying eggs.
How many eggs does an assassin snail lay at a time?
An assassin snail can lay up to 100 eggs at a time.
What is the gestation period for an assassin snail?
The gestation period for an assassin snail is 4 to 6 weeks.
How often do assassin snails lay eggs?
Assassin snails lay eggs every 2 to 3 months.
What is the hatching time for an assassin snail?
The hatching time for an assassin snail is 10 to 14 days.
What is the purpose of an assassin snail?
The purpose of an assassin snail is to help control the population of other snails.
