Pomacea diffusa

About This Species

Basic Description

The Mystery Snail, a popular freshwater snail from South America, is also known as the Ivory or Golden Mystery Snail. It's an excellent choice for beginners due to its peaceful nature and simple care. As an omnivore, it helps keep aquariums clean by consuming algae, leftover food, and decaying matter. This slow-moving scavenger explores all areas of the tank, but a secure lid is recommended as it is a known escape artist.

Detailed Description

A valuable member of any cleanup crew, Pomacea diffusa diligently consumes biofilm, detritus, and nuisance algae. While an effective cleaner, its diet must be supplemented with wafers, pellets, and blanched vegetables to ensure complete nutrition for health and shell growth. This snail thrives in stable, low-flow water that is moderately hard and alkaline, as these conditions are crucial for shell integrity. Despite a low metabolism, it has a medium waste output, a factor to consider for the tank's bioload. It breeds readily, so population control may be necessary.

Scientific Description

Pomacea diffusa is a freshwater gastropod mollusk in the family Ampullariidae. Originating from South America, this species exhibits a low metabolic rate with corresponding low oxygen consumption. Ecologically, it serves as an omnivorous detritivore that consumes biofilm and algae, contributing to nutrient cycling. The commonly observed climbing behavior, leading it to exit the water, is likely an instinct related to finding suitable oviposition sites above the waterline, a characteristic of the Pomacea genus.