Assassin snails

Overview

The Assassin Snail (Anentome helena) is a small predatory freshwater snail used for biological pest snail control. It preys on pest snails (bladder snails, ramshorn snails) and scavenges meaty foods. Cannot overpopulate like pest snails.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)
• pH: 7.0–8.0
• Hardness: 8–20 dGH (need minerals for shell health)

Tank Setup

• Minimum tank size: 20 litres for 3+
• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel (they burrow to ambush prey)
• Decor: Rocks, driftwood; open areas for hunting

Diet

• Base: Pest snails (their primary food); they hunt and eat them
• Treats: Frozen bloodworms, sinking pellets, shrimp-specific foods
• Note: They will eat pest snails but may starve if no prey available — supplement with meaty foods

Temperament & Tank Mates

• Temperament: Peaceful toward fish and shrimp; predatory toward other snails
• Best companions: All peaceful community fish; shrimp; other snails they don't eat
• Note: They will eat ornamental snails if hungry — not safe with Nerites, Mystery Snails

Breeding

• Difficulty: Easy; they breed slowly
• Process: Lay eggs singly; hatch in 2–4 weeks; very slow population growth

Common Issues

• They will eat pest snails — excellent biological control
• If no pest snails available, supplement with frozen foods
• Cannot overpopulate like pest snails
• Lifespan: 2–3 years