Japanese Trapdoor Snail (Viviparus malleattus)
The Japanese Trapdoor Snail, Viviparus malleattus, is a peaceful and hardy freshwater snail known for its attractive, spiral-shaped shell and efficient cleaning ability. Unlike many other snails, it does not lay eggs, making it a great choice for tanks where population control is important — it reproduces slowly through live birth.
Ideal for both ornamental ponds and aquariums, Trapdoor Snails are active scavengers that help maintain clean, healthy environments by eating algae, detritus, and leftover food.
? Key Features:
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Smooth, olive to dark brown shell with an operculum ("trapdoor")
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Reproduces via live young — no egg clutches
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Excellent for cold or tropical freshwater systems
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Algae eater and substrate cleaner
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Long lifespan (can live several years in optimal conditions)
? Care Guidelines:
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Scientific Name: Viviparus malleattus
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Water Parameters:
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pH: 7.0–8.0
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Temperature: 60–78°F (16–26°C)
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Hardness: Medium to hard water recommended
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Tank Size: 10 gallons and up
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Diet: Algae, biofilm, sinking pellets, blanched vegetables
? Unlike pest snails, these reproduce slowly and do not overpopulate tanks.
Japanese Trapdoor Snails are easy to care for and can live between 5-10 years. They are very colorful and have beautiful turquoise, brown, and cream colored shells. They are one of the few varieties of snail that can survive cold winters!
They eat algae and do well in many ponds and tanks.
They are also known as the Chinese Mystery Snail.
Max size: 2”
Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
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Great!
This little critter arrived alive and well packed. He's currently happy and chill in his new space!
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Love snails
They are already cleaning the tank. Will definitely use Pet Zone in future
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Pretty Shell
Another pretty snail! The shell on the one I received is a very pretty brown and turquoise. It’s a very pretty snail and looks healthy. It went to work right away cleaning my live plants, which is exactly what I wanted. I am very happy with this snail and the rest of my purchase.
