Red Ramshorn Snail

The Red Ramshorn Snail, Planorbella duryi, is celebrated in the aquarium hobby for its strikingly vivid red shell, a colouration derived from haemoglobin in the snail's blood rather than pigmentation in the shell itself. This flat, coiled snail is a popular and purposeful addition to planted aquariums, where it contributes to cleanliness by consuming algae, biofilm, and decaying organic matter without threatening healthy plant tissue. Native to North American freshwater habitats, this species has been selectively cultivated to intensify the red colouration seen in hobby variants. The Red Ramshorn is a simultaneous hermaphrodite capable of reproducing rapidly when conditions are favourable, particularly in aquariums with excess nutrients. Population management through controlled feeding is straightforward and effective. Despite its prolific nature, many planted tank enthusiasts value the species for its scavenging utility and ornamental value, particularly against green plant backdrops where the red shell is most visible. Red Ramshorns are peaceful and entirely compatible with community fish and shrimp. They remain small, typically under 3 cm, making them appropriate for nano and desktop aquariums. Their hardy constitution and wide water parameter tolerance make them one of the most forgiving invertebrates available to beginner aquarists.

Tank Setup Suitable for tanks from 10 litres upward. Planted tanks are ideal as the snails graze biofilm from leaf surfaces and contribute to natural algae management. Use a sponge filter or pre-filter guard on power filter intakes to protect smaller snails. Soft substrate and moderate plant density are ideal.

Water Parameters Maintain pH 7.0–8.0, temperature 15–25°C, GH 5–20, and KH 2–10. Moderately hard water supports shell integrity and prevents erosion of the distinctive red shell. Soft or acidic conditions will cause shell pitting and may dull the vivid colouration over time.

Feeding Red Ramshorn Snails graze on algae and biofilm continuously. Supplement with algae wafers, blanched courgette, spinach, and sinking pellets. The intensity of the red shell colouration can be enhanced through a diet rich in carotenoids. Limit feeding to control population growth, as breeding is directly linked to available nutrients.

Compatibility Fully peaceful; compatible with all community fish, dwarf shrimp, and other snail species. Popular as a live feeder item for pufferfish and assassin snails. Copper treatments and medications must be avoided completely.

Health and Maintenance Healthy Red Ramshorns display vivid red-orange colouration. Pale or washed-out shells may indicate poor diet or water chemistry issues. Control population size by moderating feeding and removing egg clutches or excess snails manually. Hardy and disease-resistant under normal conditions.