Mystery Snail

Pomacea bridgesii

Also known as: Apple snail, Spike-topped apple snail

Quick Facts

• Adult size: 5-6.5 cm (2-2.5 inches)
• Minimum tank size: 38 litres (10 gallons)
• Lifespan: 1–3 years
• Temperament: peaceful
• Swimming level: all-levels
• Diet: omnivore
• Minimum group size: 1
• Difficulty: beginner

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 21–26°C
• pH: 7.2–8.4
• Hardness: 150–300 ppm

Care Summary

A large, peaceful freshwater snail prized for its varied shell colours (ivory, gold, blue, magenta, black) and active foraging behaviour. Frequently surfaces to breathe atmospheric air through a siphon — this is normal. Requires a tight-fitting lid as they will climb out and dry up. Despite the marketing claim, they live only 1–3 years even in ideal conditions, which surprises beginners. Lay distinctive clutches of pink eggs above the waterline; these can be removed if breeding is unwanted.

Tankmates

An ideal community tank inhabitant — peaceful, helpful as a clean-up crew, and incapable of harming other fish. Will not destroy live plants (unlike many apple snail species, P. bridgesii prefers detritus and algae). Hard water and adequate calcium are essential for healthy shell growth; soft, acidic water will pit and dissolve the shell. Note that import of apple snails is restricted in some regions including the European Union due to their invasive potential — check Australian state regulations before purchasing.

Compatible with

• Betta
• Neon Tetra
• Bronze Corydoras
• Harlequin Rasbora
• Guppy
• Platy
• Cherry Shrimp
• Otocinclus

Avoid keeping with

• Pufferfish
• Loaches
• Assassin Snail
• Large Cichlids

Common Problems

• shell erosion in soft or acidic water
• escape from uncovered tanks
• shortened lifespan in cold water
• calcium deficiency leading to pitted shells

Sources: seriouslyfish.com, fishbase.org · Last updated: 2026-06-02