Narrissus Snails- Do they need new shells

[fulinn]

Hi

I just added 8 new narrissus snails to my tank, they are great fun to watch burrowing into the sand !

I was wondering if they change shells like hermits as they grow larger ? I have 4 large snails and 4 small snails.

Thanks

Bonnie

 

[ReeferMedic]

Their shells grow with them by extracting calcium from the water.

 

[fulinn]

Wonderful ! So now its even more important for me to watch my calcium levels.

My new Shaving Brush plant uses calcium from the water as well.

Thanks

Bonnie

 

[BOSTONBAKEDBEAN]

What!

 

[fulinn]

What, What ? I don't understand your confusion.

Bonnie

 

[billm]

You don't have to worry about calcium for your snails

 

[fulinn]

I thought they took calcium from the water to grow their shells.

Bonnie

 

[rjdudek]

The confusion may have been about the amount. A few dozen snails will not do anything of note to your Ca levels. They do use it, but not like clams or SPS. I don't think I would even bother to test, unless you have corals that are not listed in your signature.

 

[fulinn]

Gotcha !

I did think they would need more Calcium than just a "tiny" amount. I do plan to add another 10 or so over the coming months.

No clams or corals....yet as I'm still settle in with my tank. Plus I believe I have many non-recommended reef animals already in my tank, and I really like the "critters" I have.

Bonnie