Trochus Snail – Giant

Introduction

The Trochus Snail is a highly beneficial marine invertebrate prized for its algae-eating abilities and peaceful nature. It is often introduced into saltwater aquariums as part of the cleanup crew to maintain a clean and balanced environment.

Scientific Name

Trochus sp.

Common Name

• Trochus Snail

• Banded Trochus

• Top Shell Snail

Water Quality and Temperature

• Temperature: 72°F – 78°F (22°C – 26°C)

• pH: 8.1 – 8.4

• Salinity: 1.023 – 1.025 SG

• Calcium: 400 – 450 ppm

• Alkalinity: 8 – 12 dKH

Feeding

• Diet: Herbivore

• Primarily grazes on:

  • Diatoms

  • Film algae

  • Green algae

• Supplemental feeding (if algae is scarce):

  • Algae wafers

  • Dried seaweed (nori)

Tank Mates

Peaceful and non-aggressive.

• Safe with:

  • All reef-safe fish

  • Other snails and invertebrates

  • Corals

• Avoid:

  • Predatory fish like wrasses, puffers, and triggerfish

  • Crabs that may disturb or flip them

Substrates and Tank Decorations

• Substrate: Sand or crushed coral

• Decorations:

  • Live rock (preferred surface for grazing)

  • Smooth surfaces to climb

  • Ensure minimal sharp or unstable décor to prevent tipping over

Suitable Plants

Safe with all marine plants and macroalgae.

Sexing

Sexual dimorphism is not externally visible.

• Breeding in captivity is possible, but rare

• They release gametes into the water column for external fertilization

Breeding

• Breeds via broadcast spawning

• Capable of reproducing in reef tanks under ideal conditions

• Larvae are planktonic and require stable, high-quality water to survive

Maximum Size and Longevity

• Maximum Size: Up to 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)

• Lifespan: 2 – 5 years

General Information

Trochus Snails are efficient algae grazers and highly valued in reef aquariums for their dual role in cleanliness and stability. Unlike some snails, they can right themselves if flipped over—making them hardier and less vulnerable.

A Fun Fact

Trochus Snails are among the few marine snails that can flip themselves back upright if knocked over—earning them the title of one of the most “self-sufficient” cleanup crew members!