Vanilla Stromb (NANO) - (No Online Purchases)

Name: Vanilla Stromb Snail / Vanilla Conch - Instore pick up only

Scientific Name: Strombidae family (exact species identification varies in the aquarium trade)

Description: A fascinating and peaceful marine snail recognised for its attractive cream, ivory and pale beige shell, often featuring subtle brown or yellow markings. Vanilla Stromb Snails are active bottom-dwelling scavengers that spend much of their time moving across sandy substrates in search of algae, diatoms, biofilm and organic matter. Their unusual method of movement, using a muscular foot to propel themselves across the sand, makes them an interesting addition to marine aquariums. They are particularly valued for helping maintain clean sandbeds.

Origin: Indo-Pacific region, including tropical waters around Southeast Asia, Indonesia and northern Australia. Exact distribution depends on the species.

pH: Approximately 8.1–8.4

Temperature: Around 24–27°C

Adult Size: Approximately 5–10 cm for smaller species, although some varieties may grow larger.

Lifespan: Approximately 3–5 years or potentially longer under suitable conditions. Species-specific lifespan information is limited.

Food: Primarily herbivorous and detritivorous. Feeds on diatoms, microalgae, biofilm and organic material found on sandy substrates. In established marine aquariums, they graze naturally throughout the day. Supplementary feeding with marine algae wafers, dried seaweed or suitable herbivore foods may be required if natural food sources become depleted.

Compatibility: Peaceful and generally reef-safe, making them suitable for marine community aquariums containing non-aggressive fish, corals and compatible invertebrates. Vanilla Stromb Snails do not normally harm healthy corals or other aquarium inhabitants. Avoid predatory fish such as Triggerfish, Puffers and larger Wrasses that feed on molluscs, as well as large predatory crabs. They can be kept alongside other peaceful marine snails, provided sufficient food and grazing space are available.

Habitat: A mature, well-established marine aquarium with plenty of open sand substrate for grazing, burrowing and movement. Prefers fine to medium sand, stable water conditions and good filtration. Maintain a specific gravity of approximately 1.023–1.026, with adequate calcium and alkalinity to support healthy shell development.  Avoid copper-based medications, as these are toxic to marine invertebrates.