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Problems

From time to time you may experience problems with your snails. Very little is known about what these illnesses are, what causes them, and even less is known about treatments. Unfortunately it seems more time is spent on increasingly more ingenious ways to kill them.

Because of this, the following information is a mix of whatever research is possible and available, theory and hypothesis, logical thinking and the result of various discussions with a large group of snail owners. It is with the help of the community at large, that these problems can at least be documented. Where possible I have tried to link to example incidents.

Hopefully, we can find some effective solutions to the majority of these problems but for now I'm afraid you'll have to be content with various suggestions and discussion.



Inactivity

Snails can become inactive for a number of reasons. Lack of humidity, cold or when the snail becomes ill and weak.

Humidity

When a tank is allowed to get too dry, a snail will actually seal itself up to preserve moisture. If you think this is the case click here.

Some species prefer drier conditions, some wetter so please check the individual species guides for notes contrary to the usual care advice.

Cold

Snails are cold-blooded and rely on the ambient temperature for heat. This means there is a direct relationship between temperature and activity. Your snails generally will do well between 18°C and 30°C, with the usual average temperature being 20°C to 24°C. However, some species like it colder, some warmer so please check the individual species guides for notes contrary to the usual care advice.

For more info on improving heat conditions click here.

Illness

If the solutions above don't work then there is a chance your snail is ill. The following sections may offer more help:

Asphyxiation, Broken Radula, Dehydration, Gut Extrusion, Limp Body, Maggots, Mantle Collapse, Mites, Not Eating, Other Pests, Pseudonomas Infection, Retracting, Swollen Body, Swollen Mouth, Worms, Wounds