Astrea Snail
Astrea Snail: The Cone-Shaped Algae Crusher The Astrea Snail, scientifically known as Astraea tecta (or sometimes Lithopoma tectum), is one of the most popular and essential members of the marine aquarium cleanup crew. Also commonly called the Astrea Conehead Snail or Star Snail, this gastropod is native to the Caribbean and Western Atlantic, thriving in the warmer, rocky coastal areas of the reef. Easily recognizable by its sharp, pyramid-shaped shell, the Astrea Snail is a highly efficient herbivore that tirelessly grazes on nuisance algae on live rock and aquarium glass. They are particularly effective at consuming diatoms, film algae, and various forms of cyanobacteria. The Astrea Snail's conical shell, while distinctive, poses a unique challenge: unlike some other Turbo snails, the Astrea Snail cannot right itself if it falls upside down onto a flat surface, such as an open sand bed. If flipped, it will quickly die unless an aquarist or a compatible tankmate (like a small hermit c