How to Breed Golden Apple Snails

Golden apple snails are popular choices for aquariums because most will eat debris and algae and usually maintain a symbiotic relationship with the fish. Some will grow much too large and eat so much that they can quickly rid an aquarium of all plant life and vegetation. Despite that, the snails are popular enough that some aquarium owners will choose to breed them. Proper temperature circumstances and substantial nourishment are the biggest factors for successful breeding of these snails.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium with cover plate
  • Male and female golden apple snails
  • Vegetables (lettuce, cucumbers, celery) or fish food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put the snails in the aquarium with the cover plate. Do not keep large fish in the same tank as the breeding snails as they will eat snail eggs.

    • 2

      Maintain a gap of about 6 inches between the water and the roof of the aquarium. Some species of golden apple snails lay their eggs above the water in a floating cocoon like structure. Without a proper gap the snail will have nowhere to put her eggs.

    • 3

      Feed the snails a combination of vegetables or fish food. This is in addition to the vegetation the snails will eat within the aquarium. Snails do not require extra portions when you are trying to breed them, but it is important to maintain a feeding schedule so they are properly nourished.

    • 4

      Keep the aquarium temperature the proper warmth in accordance with the specific species of apple snail you are breeding. Temperature ranges for the various types can be found at websites like applesnail.net. According to that site, 65 to 82 F will be the best water temperature for most apple snails. Pet stores should also be able to tell what temperature is right for your type of snail.