Assassin Snails

How many assassin snails do I need?

A good rule: 1 assassin snail per 2-3 gallons for an active infestation. A 10-gallon tank with a bladder snail problem is typically cleared by 3-5 assassins within a few weeks; a 20-29 gallon tank does well with 6-10. They hunt at their own pace, so heavier outbreaks clear faster with more snails.

What do they eat after the pests are gone?

Once the pest population collapses, feed sinking protein: shrimp pellets, bloodworms, or catfish wafers a few times a week. They'll also scavenge leftover fish food. They do not eat algae — pair them with nerite snails if algae is your other problem.

Tank mates and care

Assassins are peaceful toward fish and stay small (about 1 inch). Keep them with community fish, plants, and hardscape of any kind. Avoid keeping them with prized ornamental snails (mystery, nerite, rabbit) in small tanks — a hungry assassin may eventually stalk them. Water: 72-82°F, pH 6.5-8.0, and some calcium for shell health.

Every order ships live from our warehouse with our live arrival guarantee, and orders over $79 ship free. New to assassin snails? Read our full Assassin Snail Care Guide for diet, breeding, and tank-mate details.