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Banded Trochus Snail Profile

By , About.com Guide

Scientific Name:

Trochus spp.

Other Common Names:

Turban Snail, Top Shell, Trochus Snail, Turban Shell.

Identification:

This snail is shaped like a top or pyramid. The shell usually is a pale gray color with maroon stripes.

Distribution:

Tropical seas.

Maximum Size:

To 3".

Reef Tank Safe:

Yes.

Diet & Feeding:

A herbivore, this snail consumes cyanobacteria and diatoms from rocks, aquarium walls and the substrate, but will not eat macroalgae. This snail will starve to death when it runs out of food in a tank.

Characteristics & Compatibility:

Harmless to other invertebrates. Care should be taken to not overstock an aquarium with these snails as they will starve to death when their food source runs out.

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