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.
