Pagoda Snail (Brotia pagodula) Care Guide
A unique freshwater snail with a distinctive spiky, tiered shell resembling a pagoda tower. Native to fast-flowing rivers in Thailand, it requires excellent water quality with high oxygen levels and m…
Overview
Brotia pagodula is a species in the family Pachychilidae. A unique freshwater snail with a distinctive spiky, tiered shell resembling a pagoda tower. Native to fast-flowing rivers in Thailand, it requires excellent water quality with high oxygen levels and moderate to strong water flow.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pachychilidae
- Genus: Brotia
- Scientific name: Brotia pagodula
- Other names: Porcupine Snail, Spiky Snail
- Origin: Southeast Asia, Thailand
Habitat
Brotia pagodula, a freshwater snail from fast-flowing, oxygen-rich rivers of Thailand, recognised by the spiny, pagoda-like sculpture of its shell. It grazes biofilm and detritus and prefers clean, hard, well-oxygenated water.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L
- Temperature: 22-28 °C
- pH: 7-8.5
- GH: 6-18 °dGH
- Water flow: strong
- Adult size: 3-5 cm
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Difficulty: intermediate
Diet
Classified as herbivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 1x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.
Compatibility
- Temperament: peaceful
- Position in tank: bottom
- Compatible tank mates: Any Peaceful Fish, Cherry Shrimp, Corydoras, Hillstream Loach
- Avoid with: Assassin Snail, Clown Loach, Puffer Fish
Breeding
- Breeding strategy: live-bearer
- Breeding difficulty: advanced