Rabbit Snail Care Guide
Tylomelania sp. · Freshwater Invert
What Rabbit Snail look like
The Rabbit Snail, Tylomelania sp., exhibits a distinctive, elongated, and helically coiled shell that can reach a maximum adult size of 5 to 15 centimeters. The shell is characterized by its smooth, glossy surface and a unique coloration that varies from pale yellow to deep brown, often with intricate patterns. Sexual dimorphism is subtle, with females generally being larger and more robust than males. A notable feature of this species is its elongated, rabbit-like body shape, which is adapted for a benthic lifestyle. The shell's aperture is large, allowing for efficient respiration and feeding. Additionally, the Rabbit Snail possesses a well-developed operculum that serves as a defensive adaptation against predation, while its soft body displays a range of colors that can serve as camouflage among aquatic vegetation.
Behavior & temperament
Tylomelania sp. is primarily a solitary and benthic organism, often found in the substrate of freshwater environments in Sulawesi. They exhibit a slow-moving temperament and are generally non-aggressive, preferring to forage for food rather than engage in social interactions. During breeding, Rabbit Snails are ovoviviparous, with females giving birth to live young rather than laying eggs, which is a unique reproductive strategy among gastropods. Their behavior includes grazing on biofilm and detritus, and they often utilize their elongated bodies to navigate through dense aquatic vegetation, where they find shelter and food.
Diet & feeding
In the wild, Rabbit Snails are omnivorous, primarily feeding on algae, decaying plant matter, and detritus. In captivity, they require a varied diet that includes high-quality sinking pellets, blanched vegetables, and occasional protein sources such as fish food or shrimp pellets to ensure optimal health.
Behind the name
The genus name 'Tylomelania' derives from the Greek 'tylos' (knob) and 'melania' (black), referring to the shape and coloration of the shell, while the species designation 'sp.' indicates that it is a species within this genus that has not been specifically classified.
Plan your tank
Check the numbers before you buy: tank volume, a stocking plan, cycle progress, water changes, and your ongoing care routine.
Keeping Rabbit Snail?
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