The Banded Trochus Snail is our favorite snail species here at TSA. A simple, hardy, and powerful algae cleaning machine. These snails are very hardy and can easily flip themselves over if they end up on the sandbed. Trochus Snails can grow up to 3” in shell size, and are known to readily spawn in the home aquarium, capable of creating a stable population over time. The Banded Trochus Snail is very peaceful and because of its shell shape, is not easily eaten or harassed by crustaceans.
Introduction to Trochus Snail (Reef-Safe Algae Grazer & Cleanup Crew Essential)
Trochus snails (Trochus sp.) are hardy, reef-safe algae grazers known for their ability to consume film algae, diatoms, and cyanobacteria while being one of the few snail species that can right themselves if flipped over. Trochus snails readily reproduce in a home aquarium, making them an excellent long-term addition to reef tanks. With their durability, peaceful nature, and efficient algae-eating behavior, trochus snails are a top choice for reef keepers looking to maintain a clean and balanced aquarium.
Care Requirements
Care Level: Easy – Low-maintenance and highly adaptable Minimum Tank Size: 10+ gallons Aquarium Setup: Requires live rock, glass, and sand areas for grazing Trochus snails are primarily nocturnal grazers, spending most of their time cleaning rockwork, tank walls, and equipment.
Diet & Nutrition
Trochus snails are herbivorous grazers, feeding on a wide variety of nuisance algae. Diet: Herbivorous – Prefers diatoms, film algae, and biofilm Recommended Foods: Natural algae growing on rock and glass Cyanobacteria and film algae Unlike some other snails, trochus snails do not consume macroalgae like chaeto or caulerpa.
Lifespan & Growth Rate
Lifespan: 3-5+ years Growth Rate: Slow – Typically reaches up to 2 inches With proper care and food availability, trochus snails can live for several years in a well-maintained reef aquarium.
Temperament & Compatibility
Temperament: Peaceful – Does not compete with other tankmates Reef Safe? Yes – Does not harm corals, fish, or invertebrates
Common Challenges & Considerations
Flipping Over: Unlike some snails, trochus snails can right themselves when flipped, reducing mortality. Requires Algae to Thrive: May need supplemental feeding if algae levels are low. Reproduction in Aquariums: Trochus snails readily reproduce in a home aquarium, helping sustain their population naturally. Regular monitoring ensures a stable population and consistent algae control.
Water Conditions
Temperature: 74-80°F dKH (Alkalinity): 8-12 pH: 8.1-8.4 Specific Gravity: 1.024-1.026
At Top Shelf Aquatics, we take pride in ensuring your order arrives safely and in perfect condition. Here’s everything you need to know about our shipping process:
Livestock Shipping Details
- Flat Rate Shipping:
- $39.99 Out of State
- $34.99 Florida (In-State)
- Orders over $299 ship FREE!
- NO FREE Shipping during Sale Events
- Shipping Days: The calendar during checkout determines when your livestock order will arrive. Normally we ship Monday - Thursday via FedEx Priority Overnight.
Orders placed by 2 PM EST Monday - Thursday ship the same day. Orders placed after 2 PM or on Fridays will ship the next business day. - Delivery Times: Most packages arrive by 10:30 AM EST, though remote areas may experience later deliveries.
We take every measure to protect your livestock, including specialized packaging to maintain temperature and safety during transit.
Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy
In the rare event of a DOA, you must submit a DOA Request within 2 hours of delivery (FedEx posted time). Once submitted, we will issue a replacement or store credit for the livestock. Please note:
- Shipping costs are not included in the credit.
- Refunds are not offered for livestock or shipping.
While we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by mechanical or weather issues, rest assured we’ll do everything possible to make it right!
Reef Guard Protection Plan
For ultimate peace of mind, upgrade to our Reef Guard Protection Plan. With Reef Guard, you’ll enjoy:
- Extended Livestock Guarantee: Coverage for up to 5 days.
- Priority Resolutions: Hassle-free claims with fast resolutions.
- Weather & Shipping Delay Coverage: Includes FedEx lost packages and damages.
Shipping Restrictions
- We currently ship livestock only within the continental U.S.
- Note: Due to Hawaii state law, we are unable to ship corals to Hawaii.
Now’s the perfect time to prepare your aquarium for its new additions. Consider doing a water change and ensuring space is ready. Check out our YouTube channel for detailed care instructions for your new corals!
For any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to our support team. We’re here to help make your reefing journey a success!
5 Day Reef Guard
Temp-Control Box
Priority Overnight
Expert Care Support