Bumble Bee Snails Engina Mendicaria

Description

Bumble Bee Snails Engina Mendicaria

Bumblebee Snails (Engina mendicaria) are small, striking gastropods native to the Indo-Pacific region. Their elongated shells feature distinctive alternating yellow and black stripes, resembling the coloration of a bumblebee. These snails typically grow up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in size and can live for 1-2 years in optimal conditions.Bumblebee Snails are primarily scavengers, feeding on detritus, uneaten food, algae, and decaying organic matter in the aquarium. Their voracious appetite makes them valuable members of a reef tank’s clean-up crew, helping to prevent the buildup of waste that can degrade water quality and fuel algae growth. They are also known to consume small pest organisms like vermetid snails.These snails are generally reef-compatible, but caution is advised as they may consume small polyps if there is insufficient food available. They can be kept together in groups if there is enough food to sustain the population. Bumblebee Snails are suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarium hobbyists, as they are relatively hardy and easy to care for.The optimal water parameters for Bumblebee Snails include a pH of 8.1-8.4, temperature of 72-82°F (22-28°C), and specific gravity of 1.023-1.025. Adequate water flow and oxygenation are also important for their well-being.