How to Tell If a Freshwater Snail Is Dead?

Freshwater snails are often added to aquariums as colorful and easy-to-maintain pets. The most common freshwater snail added to aquariums is the apple snail; this type of snail contains an outer shell for protection. The life expectancy of the snail depends largely on the temperature of the water. Low temperatures can cause a snail to die prematurely. It is important to keep the water temperature between 65 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

Things You'll Need

  • Fish scoop
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take the snail out of the water. You can simply pull the snail out with your hand, or you can use a fish scoop.

    • 2

      Touch the shell door of the snail to see if it moves. Look at the shell. If it is closed completely, the snail is alive. If the snail is dead, the muscles will be relaxed and the shell door will stay open.

    • 3

      If possible, look at the heartbeat of the snail. (You can only do this with young snails that have a thin enough shell for you to see light through.) Place the snail in front of a bright light so that the light shines through the shell. Look to see if you notice the body of the snail beating.

    • 4

      Smell the snail. If you notice a foul smell and no movement from the snail, it is probably dead.