Gold Ring Cowrie (Monetaria annulus)

The Gold Ring Cowrie, also known as the Yellow Ring Cowrie, is a small, smooth-shelled marine snail prized for its attractive appearance and beneficial algae-eating behavior. Its glossy shell displays a creamy white or light beige color with a distinct golden or yellow ring on the upper surface, making it a beautiful addition to any aquarium. This cowrie is relatively hardy and helps maintain tank cleanliness by grazing on algae and detritus, making it a valuable member of the cleanup crew in reef tanks.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 1 inch.
• Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum; suitable for nano tanks or larger setups with live rock for grazing.
• Diet: Herbivorous; primarily feeds on algae and biofilm, helping control algae growth. It may also accept supplemental foods such as algae wafers if natural algae sources are limited.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; the Gold Ring Cowrie is non-aggressive and coexists well with other tankmates, including fish, corals, and other invertebrates.
• Skill Level: Beginner; hardy and easy to care for, making it ideal for aquarists of all levels.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or other invertebrates and helps with algae control, making it an excellent addition to reef tanks.

Special Feature - Algae Control
The Gold Ring Cowrie is an efficient grazer that helps control various types of algae, including film and detritus algae, in the aquarium. Its constant grazing makes it an essential part of the cleanup crew, contributing to a cleaner and healthier tank environment.

Compatibility
This cowrie is peaceful and safe for all types of reef tanks. It does well with other peaceful invertebrates and fish and does not pose any threat to corals or other delicate tank inhabitants.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Gold Ring Cowrie features a glossy, light-colored shell with a distinct golden or yellow ring on the upper surface. This subtle yet beautiful coloration adds a touch of elegance to the tank​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to the Indo-Pacific region, the Gold Ring Cowrie is commonly found in shallow reef environments, where it grazes on algae growing on rocks and coral. It prefers a well-established tank with ample grazing surfaces.