Mystery Snail (Pomacea diffusa)

The legendary Mystery Snail (Pomacea diffusa) is a freshwater type of apple snail native to South America, with confirmed origins in slow and quiet waters in the western Amazon Basin. It is one of the smaller and more plant safe members of the apple snail group and is the species most widely kept in the aquarium hobby. In contrast to some larger relatives that consume living vegetation, Pomacea diffusa shows a strong preference for soft algae, biofilm, and leftover food, which makes it a compatible inhabitant for planted community tanks.

This species is known for a range of shell colors that include gold, ivory, blue, magenta, chestnut, and wild type patterns. Adult size often reaches five to six centimeters when provided with stable water parameters and adequate calcium. Pomacea diffusa has a siphon for breathing at the surface and an operculum that allows full closure of the shell, traits that support survival in variable natural environments. In aquaria the species remains peaceful and slow moving and interacts safely with most non aggressive fish. It should not be housed with fish that nip at sensory tentacles, since these tentacles are essential for scent based navigation and feeding.

Reproduction occurs through air exposed egg clutches that the snail deposits above the water line. A tight fitting lid and accessible hard surfaces near the rim are essential if breeding is expected. Pomacea diffusa requires calcium rich water to prevent shell pitting and erosion, along with regular supplemental feeding. Although it grazes continuously, it still benefits from algae wafers, blanched greens, and high quality sinking foods. Clean warm water with moderate hardness and good oxygenation keeps the species active and long lived. This species does not ship individually bagged.

Common Name:  Mystery Snail
Scientific Name:  Pomacea diffusa
Country of Import:  Czech Republic
Prophylactic Treatment:  Erythromycin / Ich-X / Metro
Approximate Current Size:  1.5″ each
Temp/pH/TDS:  75F / 6.5 pH / 80

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