Star Astraea Snail (Astraea Phoebia)

The Star Astraea Snail is a highly effective algae-eating snail commonly found in reef and marine aquariums. Known for its sturdy, star-shaped shell, this snail is a valuable member of the tank's cleanup crew, helping to keep algae in check. Its peaceful nature and hard-working habits make it a great addition to both beginner and advanced setups.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 1 inch.
• Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum; larger tanks with plenty of live rock and algae are ideal for supporting these snails.
• Diet: Herbivorous; primarily feeds on algae, including diatoms and film algae, making it a great choice for keeping surfaces clean. It also benefits from supplemental feedings of algae wafers or seaweed if natural food sources become scarce.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; completely reef-safe and gets along well with all tank inhabitants, including other invertebrates and fish.
• Skill Level: Beginner; hardy and easy to care for, making it an ideal choice for aquarists of all levels.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or other invertebrates, and is highly beneficial in maintaining a clean environment by consuming algae.

Special Feature - Algae Control
The Star Astraea Snail is particularly effective at controlling various forms of algae, including film algae, diatoms, and other growths that can appear on rocks, glass, and tank decorations. It is one of the best natural solutions for maintaining a clean and balanced aquarium.

Handling Caution
While the Star Astraea Snail is incredibly helpful, it is important to ensure that it has a proper environment to thrive. They can struggle to right themselves if they fall upside down, so it's a good idea to check on them periodically to make sure they haven't been flipped.

Coloration

• Caribbean Region: The Star Astraea Snail has a robust, star-shaped shell that typically ranges in color from gray to greenish-brown, often with algae growth on the exterior. Its distinctive shell shape makes it easily recognizable in the aquarium​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: The Star Astraea Snail is native to the Caribbean, where it inhabits rocky intertidal zones and coral reefs. It grazes on algae along reef surfaces and rocky crevices, making it an essential part of the ecosystem.