Description
Pusiostoma, commonly known as the Bumble Bee Snail, is a small, striking marine gastropod mollusk with a distinctive black and yellow striped shell. These snails are native to the Indo-Pacific region and are known for their scavenging abilities and ability to fit into tight spaces. They are a popular addition to reef aquariums for their beauty and helpfulness in maintaining tank cleanliness.
Here's a more detailed look:
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Appearance:
The Bumble Bee Snail's shell has a white or yellowish background with several black, transverse bands, mimicking the colors of a bumblebee. It's a small snail, typically ranging from 1 to 2 cm in length.
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Habitat:
These snails are found in tropical and subtropical waters, primarily in rocky and reef environments.
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Diet:
Bumble Bee Snails are known to be algivores, meaning they feed primarily on algae, detritus, and uneaten food. They are also known to eat vermetid snails.
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Behavior:
They are generally peaceful and are considered reef-safe, making them a good addition to reef aquariums. They are also known to be nocturnal and can be found hiding in crevices.
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Care:
They are considered moderately hardy, but require stable water parameters, including temperature, salinity, and pH.
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Breeding:
Breeding in captivity is not well-documented, but they are known to lay eggs above the waterline