The size of Chinese Mystery Snails varies, but when fully developed, they can grow up to 6.5 to 7 cm long, with a thick and spherical shell. The shell has 6 to 7 whorls and is olive green to greenish or reddish brown. The shell is narrower at the tip.
Chinese Mystery Snails thrive in slow-moving freshwater habitats at depths of less than 3 m. It can be found in various substrates including mud, loam, sand, and gravel. This species can significantly impact its environment by affecting the diversity of algae, altering water quality, and limiting the food supply for native snail species, ultimately leading to a decline in their populations. Additionally, Chinese Mystery Snails may prey on fish eggs, which reduces the survival rates of those fish. Moreover, they can clog water pipes, and removing them can be both costly and time-consuming.
This snail is native to East Asia and may have been introduced through the aquarium trade or as food.
Range from 0.5-7 cm, 6.5-7 cm long when fully grown. Thick, spherical shell with 6 to 7 whorls. Olive green to greenish or reddish brown. Narrower tip on shell.
By closing the opening of their shell, adults can survive for at least four weeks out of water.
When boating, fishing, or recreating on a body of water with Chinese Mystery Snails, ensure your gear and watercraft are clean. This prevents the spread of the snail through any young that may be attached to gear and equipment. Don’t let any aquarium animals loose into a waterbody. If you are unable to care for your aquarium animal, rehome it, return it to the retailer from which it was purchased, or, if necessary, consider humane euthanasia.