Spotted Trochus Snail

Trochus maculatus is a cone-shaped marine snail covered in reddish-brown spots on a creamy white shell, prized as a reliable clean-up crew member in reef aquariums. Unlike Astraea snails it can right itself if overturned, making it significantly more resilient. It grazes continuously on film algae, diatoms, and hair algae across rocks, glass, and substrate. Hardy and adaptable across a wide temperature range, it is one of the most recommended first invertebrates for a marine tank.

Keep in well-established reef aquariums with stable salinity and temperature. Acclimate slowly via drip method. Provide ample algae-covered rock surface to graze; supplement with dried seaweed if algae is insufficient. Avoid copper-based medications. Ensure no powerful powerhead intakes that could injure the snail.