Our Guide To Keeping Assassin Snail (Clea helena)

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Clea helena
   • Common name: Assassin Snail
   • Family: Buccinidae
   • Origin: Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia
   • Adult length: 2.5 - 3 cm
   • Lifespan: 2 to 5 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Assassin Snails prefer a tank with a sandy or fine-gravel substrate, which allows them to burrow and mimic their natural habitat.
   • A minimum tank size of 20L is recommended, although larger tanks are beneficial if housing multiple snails.
   • Provide hiding spots using rocks, driftwood, or live plants, which also contribute to a more natural environment.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Assassin Snails thrive in a pH range of 7.0 to 8.0, indicating slightly alkaline water.
   • Maintain water temperature between 22 to 27°C (72 to 81°F).
   • They are tolerant of a wide range of water hardness but prefer moderately hard to hard water.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A gentle water flow is suitable for Assassin Snails, so a filter with low to moderate flow is ideal.

5. Diet:

   • Assassin Snails are carnivorous and primarily feed on other small snails, making them effective for controlling snail populations in tanks.
   • In the absence of snails, they can be fed sinking foods, frozen bloodworms, and other protein-based foods.

6. Tank mates:

   • Assassin Snails are peaceful with other fish species but may prey on smaller snails and shrimp.
   • They are compatible with peaceful community fish and other non-snail tank inhabitants, making them versatile for most aquariums.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Assassin Snails are generally solitary but can coexist with others of their species without aggression.
   • They are slow-moving and spend much of their time burrowed in the substrate, ambushing prey snails.