


The Tort Mystery Snail is a real showstopper with its wild tortoiseshell pattern and smooth, steady movement. These snails add a bit of earthy, natural beauty to your tank — like little living ornaments that help keep everything clean. Native to slow South American rivers, they’re super chill and easy to care for, even if you’re new to aquariums.
Tort Mystery Snails grow around 2.5–3 inches and show a mix of brown, gold, and black shell swirls that look different on every one, no two are the same. They love gliding along plants and glass, eating up algae, leftover food, and any gunk sitting around.
They don’t bother tank mates, just mind their own business, cleaning up the place. Keep one snail per 2.5 gallons or so — gives them enough room to roam. With clean water and steady food, they’ll live around 1–2 years, sometimes longer.
Feed them algae wafers, blanched veggies (like zucchini or spinach), or sinking pellets a few times a week. They’re not fussy eaters — just steady workers keeping things tidy.
Common Name: Tort Mystery Snail
Scientific Name: Pomacea bridgesii (Tort Variant)
Size: Around 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm)
Lifespan: About 1–2 years
Temperament: Peaceful, slow, and harmless
Diet: Algae, biofilm, blanched veggies, sinking pellets
Origin: South America
Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)
pH: 6.5–8.0
Hardness: 5–20 dGH
Tank Size: Minimum 2.5 gallons per snail
That tortoiseshell pattern looks like tiny artwork every shell is unique.
Eats algae and leftovers, so you don’t have to clean as often.
Totally peaceful; won’t bug other fish or shrimp.
Hardy, adaptable, and super easy to care for.
Great little cleanup crew for planted or community tanks.
Substrate: Fine gravel or sand to mimic natural habitats.
Decor: Incorporate smooth decorations and avoid sharp objects to protect their delicate eyes.
Filtration: Efficient filtration system to maintain high water quality; ensure gentle water flow.
Lighting: Moderate lighting to enhance their coloration and support plant growth.
Tank Cover: Secure lid recommended, as they may jump if startled
They’re super chill, so best with calm species like:
Avoid aggressive fish like cichlids or loaches — they’ll nip their antennae.
Staple: Algae and tank biofilm.
Extras: Blanched veggies (zucchini, spinach), sinking wafers, or sinking pellets.
How Often: Feed 2–3 times weekly; remove leftovers after a day.
Change 25–30% of water weekly to keep it clean.
One snail per 2.5 gallons — too many make waste build up.
Add calcium or cuttlebone to help their shell stay strong.
Keep lid tight — they’re sneaky climbers.
If the shell cracks or dulls, boost calcium and water quality.
Q1: What’s the behavior of a Mystery Snail?
They’re calm grazers — move slowly, explore, and clean algae all day.
Q2: Why are Mystery Snails sometimes called a problem?
Only if overbred or overfed, they can produce lots of eggs if not managed.
Q3: What are Mystery Snails sensitive to?
Copper and poor water quality — avoid meds or fertilizers with copper.
Q4: What do Mystery Snails need?
Clean water, calcium for their shell, and some veggies or wafers weekly.
Q5: How long do they live?
Usually 1–2 years, sometimes longer, with good care.
Q6: Can Mystery Snails live with shrimp?
Yep — they’re totally peaceful and safe with shrimp or small fish.
Tort Mystery Snail – Wild, Peaceful & Handy Cleaner
A little piece of nature that keeps your tank fresh and balanced. Tort Mystery Snails add color, character, and calm energy to any aquarium.
Order your Tort Mystery Snails today from Fish Hut Aqua — shipped fast across Australia.
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