Turbo/Astrea Snail (Astraea tecta)

 

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Herbivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
• Maximum Size: 1 inch
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, temperature 72-78°F

Turbo/Astrea Snail (Astraea tecta) – Comprehensive Guide

Habitat:

The Turbo/Astrea Snail is commonly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of the Pacific Ocean. It inhabits rocky reefs and intertidal zones, where it grazes on algae-covered surfaces.

Reef Safe:

Yes, the Turbo/Astrea Snail is considered reef safe. It primarily feeds on algae and does not pose a threat to corals or other invertebrates in the aquarium.

Reef Cleaner:

The Turbo/Astrea Snail is an excellent reef cleaner as it efficiently consumes various types of nuisance algae, including green hair algae and diatoms. Its grazing activity helps maintain a clean and healthy aquarium environment.

Size:

The Turbo/Astrea Snail can grow up to 1 inch in size. However, it is commonly available at smaller sizes in the aquarium trade.

Sexual Dimorphism:

The Turbo/Astrea Snail does not exhibit significant sexual dimorphism, making it difficult to differentiate between males and females based on external characteristics.

Lifespan:

The average lifespan of the Turbo/Astrea Snail is around 2-3 years under proper care and conditions.

Diet in Aquariums:

In the aquarium, the Turbo/Astrea Snail is primarily herbivorous and feeds on various types of algae, including film algae, diatoms, and hair algae. Supplementing their diet with algae-based foods or seaweed sheets is beneficial.

Aquacultured Availability:

Yes, the Turbo/Astrea Snail is currently aquacultured and readily available to hobbyists. Aquacultured specimens are generally hardier and more adaptable to aquarium conditions compared to wild-caught individuals.

Compatibility with Other Tankmates:

The Turbo/Astrea Snail is generally peaceful and compatible with most fish, invertebrates, and corals. It is a great addition to a community reef tank. Here are five popular tankmates:

1. Clownfish: They are compatible and add vibrant colors to the tank.
2. Firefish Goby: Peaceful and active, they make great tankmates.
3. Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp: They help with cleaning and are known for their striking appearance.
4. Peppermint Shrimp: They can help control unwanted Aiptasia anemones.
5. Green Star Polyps: These corals can coexist peacefully with the Turbo/Astrea Snail.

Temperament:

The Turbo/Astrea Snail has a peaceful temperament and does not exhibit aggressive behavior towards other tank inhabitants.

Other Common Names:

The Turbo/Astrea Snail is also known as the Turban Snail or Astrea Snail.

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Popular Questions about the Turbo/Astrea Snail in Saltwater Aquariums:

1. Can the Turbo/Astrea Snail control hair algae?

Yes, the Turbo/Astrea Snail is known for its ability to consume hair algae, helping to control its growth in the aquarium.

2. Will the Turbo/Astrea Snail harm corals?

No, the Turbo/Astrea Snail is reef safe and will not harm corals or other invertebrates. It primarily feeds on algae.

3. How many Turbo/Astrea Snails should I add to my tank?

The number of Turbo/Astrea Snails to add depends on the size of your tank and the amount of algae present. As a general guideline, adding 1-2 snails per 10 gallons is a good starting point.

4. Can the Turbo/Astrea Snail tolerate high nitrate levels?

While the Turbo/Astrea Snail can tolerate some nitrate levels, it is important to maintain good water quality and keep nitrate levels as low as possible for optimal health and longevity.

5. Do Turbo/Astrea Snails reproduce in the aquarium?

While Turbo/Astrea Snails have the ability to reproduce in the aquarium, it is not common for them to do so. Their reproductive success is influenced by various factors, including water conditions and available food sources.