Assassin Snails (Clea Helena) are a common name for a group of freshwater snails belonging to the family Nassariidae and the genus Clea. They are native to Southeast Asia but have been introduced to other parts of the world through the aquarium trade. These snails are known for their carnivorous diet and their ability to prey on other snails. This makes them a popular choice for controlling snail populations in aquariums.
Assassin Snails are relatively small growing to a maximum size of about 1 inch (2.5 cm). They have a brown or tan shell with dark brown stripes running vertically down the length of the shell. The body of the snail is brown or tan and the head is equipped with a pair of tentacles.
Assassin Snails are active predators and will hunt and eat other snails. They are especially fond of pond snails and will often decimate populations of these pests in aquariums. In addition to preying on other snails Assassin Snails will also eat shrimp worms and other small invertebrates.
Assassin Snails are relatively easy to care for and make an excellent addition to most freshwater aquariums. They prefer to live in groups and will do best in tanks with at least 5 or 6 other snails. A sandy substrate is preferred as this will provide the snails with a place to bury themselves when they sleep. Assassin Snails are not particularly sensitive to water conditions but prefer a neutral pH and moderate hardness.
If you are looking for a snail that will help control snail populations in your aquarium then the Assassin Snail is a great choice. These active predators are relatively easy to care for and make an attractive addition to most freshwater tanks.
What are assassin snails?
Assassin snails are a type of snail that preys on other snails.
What do assassin snails eat?
Assassin snails eat other snails.
How do assassin snails kill their prey?
Assassin snails use a tooth-like structure on their tongue to puncture and kill their prey.
Do assassin snails eat live plants?
No assassin snails do not eat live plants.
Do assassin snails need to be fed?
No assassin snails get all the nutrients they need from their prey.
How big do assassin snails get?
Assassin snails can grow up to 2 inches in length.
What is the lifespan of an assassin snail?
Assassin snails can live up to 3 years.
Where do assassin snails come from?
Assassin snails are native to Southeast Asia.
What is the natural habitat of assassin snails?
Assassin snails prefer slow-moving freshwater habitats with plenty of vegetation.
Are assassin snails considered pests?
In some areas assassin snails are considered pests because they can decimate populations of other snails.
Can assassin snails be kept as pets?
Yes assassin snails can be kept as pets.
What do assassin snail eggs look like?
Assassin snail eggs are small and brown.
How many eggs does an assassin snail lay at a time?
An assassin snail can lay up to 100 eggs at a time.
How long does it take for assassin snail eggs to hatch?
It takes about 2 weeks for assassin snail eggs to hatch.
What do baby assassin snails look like?
Baby assassin snails look like miniature versions of the adults.
