How to Set Up a Ramshorn Snail Habitat

Ramshorn snails are typically considered aquatic pests by many freshwater aquarium keepers for their destructive nature and ability to rapidly reproduce and tolerate a variety of water conditions. However, the snail's vast array of colors and hardiness make it quite a good pet for beginners as long as you're willing to give it its own aquarium. Setting up a habitat for a pet ramshorn snail is relatively easy to do and is an excellent starter project for the novice aquarium keeper.

Things You'll Need

  • 10-gallon aquarium
  • Gravel
  • Colander
  • Various decor
  • Hanging filter
  • Dechlorinator
  • Aquarium hood with fluorescent light
  • Duct tape
  • Cucumber
  • Lettuce
  • Algae wafers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the tank in an area where it will not receive too much direct sunlight. Though the snails eat algae, which direct sunlight promotes, the algae may grow faster than the snails can eat it and take over your tank.

    • 2

      Rinse the gravel using a colander under a faucet to remove any dust, dirt, or other debris particles that would cloud your water. Layer the gravel at the bottom of the tank. A layer about 1 inch to 1 1/2 inches high will suffice.

    • 3

      Fill the tank with fresh water and decorate it with various aquarium-safe decor. Do not use live plants or wood, as these will only be eaten by the snails. Use artificial plants and ceramic ornaments.

    • 4

      Install the hanging filter on the back of the aquarium. This filter hangs over the lip of the back of your aquarium using a downward curving ramp as a hook. It takes in water using an intake tube and expels clean water using the ramp-like spillway. These are very basic filters that can be purchased from virtually any pet shop.

    • 5

      Add some dechlorinator to the water. Dechlorinator usually comes as a liquid that removes harmful chemicals from your tap water. Look for the proper dosage on the packaging, as it varies according to the manufacturer.

    • 6

      Place the tight-fitting lid over the top of the tank. The lid should include a fluorescent light and a lid for easy access to the water. Cover up any openings in the lid, such as any small gaps around the open spot for the hanging filter, with duct tape. This will prevent any snails from escaping.

    • 7

      Wait 48 hours and then introduce your snails to the aquarium. Feed them a diet of cucumber slices, algae wafers, or lettuce. They can also eat fish flakes that sink to the bottom of the tank, but any food they don't eat may add harmful ammonia to the water or cloud the aquarium.