Spiny Star Snails, Astraea phoebia/tectum, are helpful marine critters. They also have an unusual appearance which helps make them an attractive addition for hobbyists. They have a short, squat profile with radiating curling spines, lending the critter its name. Why Keep Spiny Star Snails. Spiny Star snails are prized in reef aquariums for their exceptional algae eating capabilities. They are particularly helpful for helping prevent algae build up but grazing shorter length hair algae, compared to other tank inhabitants. This can help ensure that algae build up doesn’t get out of hand. Their small sizes makes them attractive clean up crew candidates for smaller reef tanks. Or simply just helpful to have to access the harder to reach areas. Natural Habitat In the wild, Spiny Star Snails are found on rocky reef surfaces in the Western Atlantic Ocean, where they graze on algae and biofilm. They thrive in stable, well-established environments with ample surface area for foraging and natural shelter among live rock or coral structures. Keeping Them Healthy. To keep Spiny Star Snails in top condition, house them in a mature, stable aquarium with low nitrate levels and no copper-based treatments. In addition to natural algae, their diet can be supplemented with dried seaweed or algae wafers if food becomes scarce. Suitable Tank Mates. Spiny Star Snails are peaceful and reef-safe, coexisting well with corals, other invertebrates, and most reef fish. Avoid housing them with aggressive or snail eating species such as some wrasses, puffers, and crabs that may damage or consume them. How Many Should Be Kept. A small group of these critters is usually sufficient to maintain a clean tank alongside other members of the clean up crew. The exact number can vary based on the size and maturity of the tank. Feel free to give us a call if you want more specific advice.
