Rabbit Snail

About

Rabbit snails (Tylomelania sp.) are a group of freshwater snails native to the ancient lakes of Sulawesi, Indonesia, where they have evolved in isolation for millions of years. The name comes from their distinctive elongated, wrinkled faces and prominent antennae, which do give them an oddly rabbit-like expression up close. Their shells are typically tall and conical, sometimes reaching several inches in length, and come in a range of colors and textures depending on the species or variant. From smooth yellow and orange forms to darker, knobbled shells that look almost prehistoric. In the aquarium they are peaceful, slow-paced grazers that spend their time methodically working over substrate and hardscape, feeding on algae, biofilm, and soft plant matter. They are generally safe with most aquatic plants, though tender, delicate species may get some attention. Unlike many snails, rabbit snails reproduce very slowly. They are livebearers that produce just one or two fully formed young at a time, so population explosions are not a concern. Despite their Sulawesi origins, they tend to adapt reasonably well to a range of water conditions and are considered a forgiving choice for newer keepers willing to provide stable, clean water.