🔥 Faunus ater var. “Lava / Magma” — Volcano Snail
Bring natural contrast and movement to your aquascape with the stunning Faunus ater “Lava/Magma” snail, often called the Volcano Snail for its deep charcoal shell accented with glowing red, amber, or copper undertones.
This species combines the bold appearance of a decorative feature snail with the utility of a cleanup crew—making it a favourite for planted tanks, large displays, and nature-inspired aquascapes.
⭐ Features & Benefits
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🔥 Striking Shell Coloration: Dark volcanic black body with fiery rust-orange striations—each specimen is unique.
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🧽 Functional Cleaner: Helps reduce algae film, leftover food, and organic debris.
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🛑 Low Reproduction Risk: Will not successfully breed in freshwater; eggs require brackish/saltwater to develop.
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🌿 Plant & Shrimp Safe: Peaceful and entirely non-destructive—great for caridina, neo shrimp, and delicate aquascapes.
📏 Size
4–6 cm+ (one of the larger ornamental freshwater snails)
Growth rate depends on mineral-rich water and food availability.
💧 Recommended Water Parameters
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 22–30°C (72–86°F) |
| pH | 7.0–8.4 |
| GH | 6–18° |
| KH | 3–10° |
| Minimum Tank Size | 20+ gallons |
🍽 Diet
Primarily feeds on biofilm and soft algae, but benefits from supplemental foods such as:
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Algae wafers
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Spirulina pellets
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Blanched vegetables
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Calcium-rich snail foods
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Shrimp pellets
Providing calcium will help maintain shell structure and colour.