Mexican Turbo Snail (Turbo fluctuosus)

 

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Herbivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
• Maximum Size: 2 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Mexican Turbo Snail (Turbo fluctuosus) – Comprehensive Guide

Habitat:

The Mexican Turbo Snail is native to the rocky coastal areas of the Eastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from Baja California to Ecuador. It prefers areas with strong water movement and plenty of algae growth.

Reef Safe:

Yes, the Mexican Turbo Snail is considered reef safe. It primarily feeds on algae and does not harm corals or other invertebrates.

Reef Cleaner:

The Mexican Turbo Snail is an excellent reef cleaner. It grazes on various types of algae, including nuisance algae such as hair algae and diatoms. It helps to maintain a healthy and balanced ecosystem within the aquarium.

Size:

The Mexican Turbo Snail can grow up to 2 inches in diameter.

Sexual Dimorphism:

There is no significant sexual dimorphism in the Mexican Turbo Snail. Both males and females have similar appearances.

Lifespan:

The average lifespan of the Mexican Turbo Snail is around 2-3 years, but with proper care, it can live longer.

Diet in Aquariums:

In aquariums, the Mexican Turbo Snail mainly feeds on various types of algae, including film algae, diatoms, and hair algae. It will also consume leftover fish food and detritus.

Aquacultured Availability:

Yes, the Mexican Turbo Snail is currently aquacultured and readily available to hobbyists. Aquacultured specimens are generally hardier and better adapted to aquarium life.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals:

The Mexican Turbo Snail is generally compatible with most peaceful fish, invertebrates, and corals. It poses no threat to them and helps to keep the aquarium clean. Some suitable tankmates for the Mexican Turbo Snail include:

1. Ocellaris Clownfish: These clownfish are peaceful and can coexist with the snail without any issues.
2. Firefish Goby: Firefish gobies are small and peaceful, making them suitable companions for the snail.
3. Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp: These shrimp are known for their cleaning abilities and will not harm the snail.
4. Green Star Polyps: The Mexican Turbo Snail will not harm the polyps and can help keep them clean from algae.
5. Zoanthids: Similar to the Green Star Polyps, zoanthids can benefit from the snail’s algae grazing behavior.

Temperament:

The Mexican Turbo Snail is peaceful and non-aggressive towards other tank inhabitants. It will focus on grazing algae and generally mind its own business.

Other Common Names:

The Mexican Turbo Snail is also known as the Mexican Turbo, Mexican Turbo Grazer, or Mexican Turbo Snail Grazer.

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1. Wide Selection: We offer a wide range of high-quality marine livestock, including the Mexican Turbo Snail.
2. Healthy Specimens: Our snails are carefully selected and properly acclimated to ensure they arrive in excellent condition.
3. Expert Advice: Our team of experienced aquarists is available to provide guidance and answer any questions you may have about the Mexican Turbo Snail or other aquarium-related topics.
4. Convenient Shopping: Our website is user-friendly, making it easy to browse and purchase the products you need.
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Popular Questions and Answers:

Q: Can the Mexican Turbo Snail survive in a freshwater aquarium?

A: No, the Mexican Turbo Snail is a marine species and requires a saltwater aquarium to thrive.

Q: How many Mexican Turbo Snails should I keep in my tank?

A: It is recommended to have 1-2 Mexican Turbo Snails per 10 gallons of water to ensure effective algae control.

Q: Will the Mexican Turbo Snail eat coralline algae?

A: While the Mexican Turbo Snail primarily feeds on film algae, diatoms, and hair algae, it may also consume small amounts of coralline algae. However, it generally does not pose a significant threat to established coralline algae growth.

Q: Can the Mexican Turbo Snail reproduce in the home aquarium?

A: Mexican Turbo Snails can reproduce in captivity, but it is relatively rare. They release eggs into the water column, which then develop into larvae. The larvae undergo a planktonic stage before settling and transforming into young snails.

Q: How can I prevent the Mexican Turbo Snail from escaping the tank?

A: Mexican Turbo Snails are generally not known for escaping from aquariums. However, ensuring a secure lid or cover for your tank can prevent any accidental escapes.