Arabica Cowry - (No Online Purchases)

The Arabica Cowry is a striking marine snail prized for its glossy patterned shell. While attractive, it requires a mature marine aquarium with stable conditions and plenty of natural grazing surfaces.

Overview

• Scientific name: Cypraea arabica
• Common names: Arabica Cowry, Arabic Cowry
• Origin: Indo-Pacific region
• Maximum size: Around 6–10 cm
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Reef safe: Usually with caution
• Difficulty: Moderate

Aquarium Requirements

Tank Size

• Recommended minimum: 150 litres
• Best suited to mature reef or live-rock systems

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–27°C
• Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
• Calcium: 380–450 ppm
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0
• Nitrate: preferably under 10 ppm

Stable water quality is very important for shell health and long-term survival.

Diet

Arabica Cowries are mainly nocturnal grazers and scavengers.

Feeds on:

• Algae films
• Sponges
• Detritus
• Biofilm on live rock
• Seaweed sheets (nori)
• Meaty foods occasionally

In aquariums with limited natural food, supplemental feeding may be required.

Behaviour

• Mostly active at night
• Spends daytime hidden among rocks or caves
• Uses a soft mantle to cover and polish its shell
• Slow-moving and non-aggressive

The mantle covering the shell is normal and indicates a healthy animal.

Reef Compatibility

Generally compatible with:

• Peaceful reef fish
• Shrimp
• Snails
• Most corals

Use caution because larger cowries may occasionally:

• Knock over loose frags
• Graze soft corals or sessile invertebrates if underfed

Behaviour varies between individuals.

Compatibility

Avoid housing with:

• Triggerfish
• Puffers
• Large wrasses
• Hawkfish
• Predatory crabs

These species may attack or consume the cowry.

Important Care Notes

• Requires a well-established aquarium with mature live rock
• Sensitive to copper-based medications
• Acclimate slowly to avoid osmotic shock
• Ensure plenty of hiding places

Signs of Stress

Watch for:

• Lack of movement
• Mantle not extending
• Shell erosion
• Falling from glass repeatedly
• Failure to feed

These can indicate poor water quality, starvation, or aggression from tankmates.

Lifespan

With proper care, Arabica Cowries can live for several years in a stable marine aquarium.