Hercules Snail

Brotia herculea, also known as the Hercules Snail or the Giant Tower Cap Snail,  is native to Southeast Asia, where it is found in various river systems in Myanmar and northwestern Thailand. Externally, it is characterized by an elongated, twisted and ribbed housing, which has different shades of brown, as well as a light gray to brown foot, which can also be speckled. With a maximum shell length of 10 cm, the Hercules Snail is the largest species in the genus Brotia and truly deserves its name.

Care in the aquarium

The Hercules Snail is not too difficult to care for. Due to its size, it can be kept in aquariums from 54 liters or 60cm edge length. A softer substrate such as sand, active soil or fine gravel is ideal, as the Hercules Snail likes to dig in it in search for food. In contrast to tower snails of the genus Melanoides, the Hercules Snail does not bury itself completely and remains visible in the aquarium. The water should have a temperature between 22 and 28°C and a pH value above 7, be clear and rich in oxygen. As with most types of snails, medium-hard to hard water is ideal, as the shell can be damaged if the water is too soft. However, a white corroded shell tip is normal and does not harm the snail. The Hercules Snail is extremely peaceful and can easily be socialized with fish and invertebrates that require similar water parameters and do not prey on it.

Feeding

As an omnivore, Brotia herculea is not too picky about food. Algae films are eaten in the aquarium and the substrate is also searched for food particles. In addition, it can be fed with dust food, snail and shrimp food and various types of leaves, among other things.

Sexual characteristics and breeding