False Mexican Turbo Snail make an excellent addition to the marine clean up crew. They are very effective for algae control, especially hair algae so have been a popular choice for a long time. True vrs false Mexican turbo snail. Both snails are effective algae eaters in marine aquariums and look very similar. They do have different shaped trap doors across their aperture. The true mexican turbo snail is able to right itself when knock over. This makes them more likely to thrive in an aquarium, compared to the false Mexican turbo, which, thanks to its morphology, can struggle to get up if up ended. False Mexican Turbo Snail water parameters As with all reef inhabitants the water should resemble nature as closely as possible. So monitor water parameters always and adjust when needed. This snail and many other marine tank inhabitants will suffer with low Ph, Calcium Kh etc and the same goes for high Phosphates or nitrates. Do not buy this snail to control algae if your water parameters aren’t good address the water issues first. False Mexican Turbo Snail Reef tank suitability. Yes totally reef safe. False Mexican Turbo Snail will not damage corals and are a tremendous scavenger. The are mostly nocturnal and will happily graze on nuisance hair algae all through the night. CAUTION Please do not, as suggested by some, introduce these creatures as aquarium start up animals, they will starve in most new set ups. Wait until there is food, algae for them to graze. This advice although sadly all to common is stupid and cruel. 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.
