Trapdoor Snails (Viviparus viviparus)
The Highlights
- Attractively patterned spiral shells in shades of green and yellow
- These helpful little snails will eat the algae from the bottom of your pond to help keep it clean. They also feed on dead foliage, plankton and other microdebris as well as excess fish food, preventing fish overfeeding
- The name 'Trapdoor' is due to their ability to produce an operculum, a tough plate that protects them from predators and prevents dehydration. They can seal themselves for several months if necessary
- As they have gills and not lungs, they can survive even under frozen water
- How many snails do you need? We recommend 5 per square metre
- Hardy and easy to care for, they can adapt to changes in water conditions and form part of your pond's healthy ecosystem
The Highlights
- Attractively patterned spiral shells in shades of green and yellow
- These helpful little snails will eat the algae from the bottom of your pond to help keep it clean. They also feed on dead foliage, plankton and other microdebris as well as excess fish food, preventing fish overfeeding
- The name 'Trapdoor' is due to their ability to produce an operculum, a tough plate that protects them from predators and prevents dehydration. They can seal themselves for several months if necessary
- As they have gills and not lungs, they can survive even under frozen water
- How many snails do you need? We recommend 5 per square metre
- Hardy and easy to care for, they can adapt to changes in water conditions and form part of your pond's healthy ecosystem
Care Guide
Good pest and disease resistance
Common health problems usually involve a snail’s shell. They need plenty of calcium in their diet to grow a strong one. If the Ramshorn Snails don’t eat enough, their shell growth could become stunted. The opposite can happen if they eat too much, the shell grows faster and discolors. Watch out for white spots on a snail’s shell, this could be a sign of parasites. These snails are not afflicted by other pathogens very often. Copper is toxic to most invertebrates. Never add anything to your pond if copper is listed as an ingredient. MORE
No extra feeding needed
There's no need to feed your snails - they'll find all they need in your pond.
For more care tips and ideas visit our Knowledge page
Planting Calendar
- Best time to plant
- Harvest
- Flower