Cerith Snail

Note....Although there are many varieties of Cerith from Florida and throughout the world as well as some false Cerith we carry only the Cerith C.altratum and C litertatum[true Cerith Snails which we feel are by far the hardiest and the most adaptable for the marine aquarium. These variety of Cerith are probably the most hardy of all animals that we offer. Note... These are one of the most challenging species for us to keep in stock due to their popularity, and for the fact that it is a rather long boat ride usually through some rather rough sea conditions to get to the area that we dive for these. Many of the other items that we offer are comparatively easier for myself and my crew to collect. We feel so strongly that this is one of the most worthwhile and relevant species for a reef aquarium that we make an extra effort to always have them in stock. - Pete

Behavior In the wild the Cerith Snail feeds upon diatom, detritus and algae that is growing around rocks. They burrow into the sand especially during periods of rough weather.

Description Elongated with spirals and short spikes. Very variable in coloration..

Habitat This Cerith lives within sand bottom near rocky reef areas.

Size About 1.25 inches. They grow to about 1.75 inches. Most are collected at about 1.25 inches.

Aquarium Discussion Cerithium altratum does very well within a Reef Aquarium. It gets along well with other tank mates, is totally herbivorous, and is known for the consumption of red diatom and algae This is the only snail that we know of that will remove the algae that grows below the sand at the front edge of many aquariums.

Similar Species....

Stocky Cerith - C litteratum: These are more stout, grow to about 1.5 inches and are similar in habit. These are common on the reef in water up to about 90 feet or so. We have tested these for aquarium use and found that the larger ones are acceptable to use within a reef.

Ivory Cerith - C. eburneum: These are the Cerith that end up as Hermit Crab shells. These are somewhat hardy although no where near as hardy as C. atratum. These have an amber colored operculum while most other Cerith's have a darker operculum.

Fly-Specked Cerith - These are the Cerith's that are found in grassy areas. They get to be about an inch and are sometimes mistaken for Florida Cerith. These are very common and grow to about an inch however we do not consider them to be relevant for aquarium trade.

Cerith Snail "Cerithium atratum or C literatum
Price: 15.00 Per 12