Trapdoor Snails | Viviparus viviparus
Patterned snails for algae
Grown by Caroline
Enfield
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Currently out of stock
Plant diary
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Trapdoor Snails
Viviparus viviparus
- 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
What to expect
Supplied as
Eventual height
Habit
Hardiness
Spacing
Will this grow in my garden?
Can I grow this in a pot?
Trapdoor snails are aquatic snails, not plants, and should be kept in a pond or water-filled container rather than a plant pot.
How big does it get?
Trapdoor Snails typically grow to a shell length of 3-4 cm.
How much sunlight does this need?
Trapdoor Snails prefer partial shade to help keep the water cool.
What kind of soil does this plant prefer?
Trapdoor Snails are aquatic animals and do not require soil.
How much watering does this plant need?
Trapdoor Snails are aquatic creatures and must be kept constantly submerged in a pond or aquarium, requiring no watering.
Will this plant need pruning?
Trapdoor Snails are animals and do not require pruning.
How hardy is this plant?
Viviparus viviparus snails are fully hardy (H6), surviving winter temperatures down to -20°C as long as the pond does not freeze completely to the bottom.
The wider garden
Enfield
Meet Caroline
A deep dive into sustainable gardening
Nestled amongst wildlife meadows and resident ducks, Caroline’s award winning pond plant nursery in Enfield has been making a splash since 1965, when they invented the (recycled, obvs) aquatic basket. Sixty years and multiple RHS gold medals later, they’re still surprising us with new varieties every year!
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