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Nicknamed the “Zombie Snail” for its habit of suddenly erupting from the sand when food hits the water, Nassariusspecies are small scavenging marine snails that bring serious cleanup power and a bit of spooky flair to reef tanks. With their long siphons and buried lifestyle, they’re fascinating to watch and highly effective detritus consumers.
Species: Nassarius sp.
Common Names: Zombie Snail, Nassarius Snail, Sandbed Scavenger
Origin: Indo-Pacific – sandy coastal regions and reef flats
Light Requirements: None specific – prefers shaded substrate
Diet: Scavenger – feeds on leftover food, detritus, decaying matter, and meaty scraps
Maximum Size: 1–2.5 cm depending on species
Temperament: Peaceful
Care Level: Very easy
Aquarium Setup:
Ideal for marine aquariums with a sandy substrate, Nassarius snails bury themselves during the day and emerge when they detect food. A great addition to reef-safe cleanup crews, they help stir the sandbed, prevent anaerobic zones, and consume uneaten waste before it pollutes the water. They require no special lighting or care, but a steady supply of meaty scraps or target feeding ensures long-term health.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 22–27°C
pH: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: 1.023–1.025
Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
Calcium: 400–450 ppm
Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
Growth and Maintenance:
Zombie Snails are incredibly hardy and long-lived when kept in stable, clean systems. They are not algae eaters, so shouldn’t be relied on for that role—but they excel at devouring decaying organic matter and uneaten food. They do not breed prolifically in aquariums, making them easy to manage in mixed reef systems.
Care Tips:
✔ Use fine sand for easy burrowing
✔ Target feed occasionally in low-waste tanks
✔ Do not expose to air for long—handle gently
✔ Ideal for stirring detritus from dead spots
✔ Ensure a stable salinity and calcium level
Compatibility:
100% reef-safe and compatible with all peaceful marine species including corals, inverts, and fish. Avoid housing with predatory wrasses, puffers, or crabs that may pick at them.
Availability:
Readily available in the Australian marine aquarium trade. Often sold in small groups as part of cleanup crew packages.
Disclaimer:
Zombie Snails are scavengers, not algae grazers. Pair with herbivorous snails like Trochus or Cerith for complete coverage.