Hawk-wing Conch

Strombus raninus, the Hawk-wing Conch, is a medium-sized Caribbean conch named for the distinctive mottled brown and cream shell patterning that resembles the wing feathers of a hawk. Like its relative the Florida Fighting Conch, it is a dedicated sand-bed scavenger that powers through substrate consuming film algae, cyanobacteria, diatoms, detritus, and organic matter. Its muscular, leaping locomotive motion — characteristic of all Strombus conchs — is highly entertaining to watch. It requires a deep sand bed for burrowing, feeding, and respite from strong light. A useful and active member of the clean-up crew for Caribbean-themed or standard reef aquariums with sandy substrates.

Provide a fine sand bed of at least 5 cm depth for burrowing and active locomotion. Supplement diet with dried seaweed if natural algae growth is insufficient. Ensure the tank has sufficient sandy floor area proportionate to the conch's size. Avoid housing with triggerfish, large puffers, or other known conch predators. Maintain good water quality; conchs are moderately sensitive to declining water parameters. Peaceful with all other reef inhabitants.