Description
Orange Lip Conch Snail (Strombus luhuanus)
Overview
The Orange Lip Conch Snail is a striking and highly active sand-dwelling snail, easily recognized by its flared shell and vivid orange mouth and foot. Constantly on the move, it helps keep the substrate clean by consuming algae and detritus, making it both a beautiful and functional addition to any reef aquarium.
Origin
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Strombus luhuanus is commonly found on sandy reef flats and seagrass beds, where it grazes on film algae and organic material.
Feeding
Primarily herbivorous, feeding on diatoms, film algae, and detritus in the sand bed. Supplement with algae wafers, seaweed sheets, or vegetable-based pellets if natural food sources are limited.
Tank Mates
Completely reef-safe and peaceful. Compatible with all non-predatory tank mates, including other snails, shrimp, and reef-safe fish. Avoid keeping with predators such as puffers, triggers, or large wrasses.
Aggression
Peaceful and beneficial. Plays an important role in keeping sand beds aerated and free of debris.
Experience Level
Ideal for beginner to advanced aquarists. Requires a fine sandy substrate for burrowing and foraging, and a mature tank with stable parameters.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 74°F – 82°F (23°C – 28°C)
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Salinity: 1.023 – 1.025 SG
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pH: 8.1 – 8.4
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Alkalinity: 8 – 12 dKH
Attractive, hardy, and highly useful, the Orange Lip Conch Snail is a must-have for maintaining a healthy sand bed and a balanced reef ecosystem.
