Not furry either, still lovely.
Malaysian Trumpet Snail
Melanoides tuberculata
Also called MTS, Red-rimmed melania, Malayan livebearing snail
From Native to northern Africa and southern Asia; now found in warm fresh waters in many parts of the world.1
A friendly guide, not veterinary advice. For anything about your pet's health, ask your vet.
At a glance the quick version
Wikipedia gives typical shell lengths of 20-36 mm, rarely up to 80 mm; Fishkeeping World says aquarium adults reach about 2.5 cm.
Fishkeeping World gives around 2 years, possibly more in good conditions.
Looks how to spot one
Long cone-shaped shell
A slim snail with a tall, pointed, tower-like shell of 10-15 whorls. The shell is usually light brown with rusty flecks, though some populations are much darker.1
Personality what they are like
Very peaceful. It spends the day buried in the sand or gravel and comes up at night to graze and scavenge.12
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Low; it burrows through the substrate and roams the surface after dark.12
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Easy care. Feed lightly to keep numbers in check, and use a sandy or fine gravel bottom it can dig into.2
Home where they are happiest
Fishkeeping World suggests a small group can live in about 19 litres (5 US gallons) or more, at about 21-27 °C (70-80 °F) and pH 7.0-7.5. Wikipedia notes the species tolerates a broad range of 18-32 °C and even brackish water. Soft sand or fine gravel.12
Food basics what goes in the bowl
Eats algae, biofilm, detritus and leftover fish food in the substrate. Extra vegetables such as blanched spinach, lettuce, cucumber or broccoli are taken readily.12
Company who they like around
Fine alone or in groups and safe with peaceful fish, shrimp and plants.2
The story where it all began
Described by O. F. Müller in 1774, this snail comes from warm regions of Africa and Asia. Through the aquarium trade it spread widely, and in the hobby it is valued for keeping the substrate loose and clean.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
- 1
Babies are born live: the mother keeps developing young in a brood pouch and releases fully formed miniature snails.1
- 2
Females can reproduce without a male.1
- 3
Some wild populations near the Sea of Galilee have dark, almost black shells that may help with camouflage.1
- 4
It copes with water from fresh right up to quite salty, around 32 parts per thousand.1
Recognised by the official bits
- Taxonomy (via Wikipedia)
- Melanoides tuberculata (O. F. Müller, 1774), family Thiaridae.1
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Malaysian Trumpet Snail. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- FeedingSmall amountsevery day
- Temperature checkevery day
- Water changeSmall, gentle water changesevery week
- Water testevery week
- Filter rinseRinse in old tank water, never tap waterevery month
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Malaysian Trumpet Snail?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests feeding small amounts daily. They graze on algae, biofilm, and leftover fish food, so extra vegetables like blanched spinach or cucumber can be offered a few times a week. Adjust based on how much they eat to avoid overfeeding.12 Furry Diary plan
What does a Malaysian Trumpet Snail eat, and what should it never eat?
They eat algae, biofilm, detritus, and leftover fish food, plus blanched vegetables like spinach, lettuce, cucumber, or broccoli. Avoid any foods with added salt, seasonings, or copper, as these can harm them. Always check with a vet for specific concerns.12
How much space does a Malaysian Trumpet Snail need?
A small group can live in about 19 litres (5 US gallons) or more, with soft sand or fine gravel for burrowing. More space is better if you want to keep numbers in check. Ask a good breeder for advice on tank size for larger groups.12
What temperature, light or water does a Malaysian Trumpet Snail need?
They thrive at 21-27°C (70-80°F) with a pH of 7.0-7.5, though they tolerate 18-32°C and even brackish water. Use soft sand or fine gravel for burrowing. Furry Diary suggests daily temperature checks and weekly gentle water changes.12 Furry Diary plan
How often should I clean a Malaysian Trumpet Snail's home?
Furry Diary's plan includes weekly small, gentle water changes and water tests, plus a monthly filter rinse in old tank water. Avoid harsh cleaning to protect the snail. For specific cleaning routines, consult a vet or good breeder. Furry Diary plan
Can a Malaysian Trumpet Snail live with others?
Yes, they are very peaceful and safe with peaceful fish, shrimp, and plants. They are fine alone or in groups. Always introduce new tank mates slowly and check with a vet for compatibility.2
How long does a Malaysian Trumpet Snail live?
They typically live about 2 years with proper care. Their lifespan can vary based on water quality and diet. For more details, ask a good breeder or exotic-pet vet.2
Can I handle a Malaysian Trumpet Snail?
It's best to avoid handling them as they are delicate and can be stressed. If you need to move them, use a soft net or your wet hand gently. Always wash your hands before and after to protect both you and the snail.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at support@furrydiary.app and we will fix it.
- Melanoides tuberculata - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for origin, taxonomy, shell, size, habitat, diet, reproduction
- Malaysian Trumpet Snail care guide - Fishkeeping World fishkeepingworld.comused for lifespan, tank size, parameters, diet, behaviour
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
- RSPCA: What to feed your rabbit rspca.org.ukused for owner questions
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.