freshwater snails
freshwater snails
freshwater snails: the natural algae eaters of your pond! Pond snails clear away algae, waste and organic material, contributing to a healthy and clear pond. Thanks to their natural cleaning function, they are a valuable addition to any pond.
Please note: Snails and mussels for the pond are only available from 100 pieces upwards due to special transportation.
Algae Eater Natural Pond Vacuum Pack - XL
- For 3.500- 6.000 L
- Soil and wall cleaner
- Does not attack pond plants
Algae Eater Natural Pond Vacuum Pack - XXXL
- For 10,000 - 15,000 L
- Soil and wall cleaner
- Does not attack pond plants
Pond Cleaning Package - XL
- For 3,500 - 6,000 L
- Oxygen plants + extras
- Placement: Loose in the pond
Pond Cleaning Package - XXXL
- For 10,000 - 15,000 L
- Oxygen plants + extras
- Placement: Loose in the pond
Pond Vacuum Alternative: Soil Cleaner Package - 100% Natural Soil Dirt Pond Removal
- For 500 - 1.250 L
- Soil and wall cleaner
- Does not attack pond plants
freshwater snails - 100 pieces
- For 1.500 - 3.000 liters
- Soil and wall cleaner
- Does not attack pond plants
Simon van der Velde
Frequently asked questions about freshwater snails
We always ship our pond snails without water. Snails can survive for several days on dry land. After packing, they spit out water and go into dormancy. In our nursery they are kept in cold water, so they are already at rest.
When you place snails in the pond, they may still be in a dormant state. This sometimes causes them to float. Fortunately, this is nothing to worry about! Within three days they will sink on their own and become active as soon as they take in water again.
Keep in mind the following points:
- Enough plants: Maintain a good biological balance with plenty of oxygen plants, water lilies and marsh plants. Marsh plants are ideal for snails to hide, and the dead leaves serve as a food source.
- Sufficient substrate on the bottom: A layer of about 10 cm of substrate is pleasant for snails, as they can hide in it and pond bacteria develop well.
The lifespan of pond snails depends on several factors, such as the environment, diet and the presence of predators. Generally, pond snails live between 1 and 2 years, but some individuals can live up to 3 years. freshwater snails reproduce among themselves, so you can always maintain a stable population in the pond. However, it is important to set up the pond properly to keep the snails healthy.
A poorly designed pond can cause snails to die prematurely, leading to an accumulation of algae. To prevent this, a layer of 5 to 10 cm of porous substrate on the bottom of the pond is essential. In addition, aquatic plants, such as marsh plants, oxygen plants and water lilies, play a crucial role. These plants help the bacteria to function optimally, which improves water quality and reduces algae growth and the green color of the water. By setting up your pond properly, you create a healthy habitat for your pond snails and maintain a clear pond. Do the pond check.
We offer freshwater snails that help with algae control. However, we do not ship specific species, but provide the snails that are currently available in our nursery. Because availability depends on growth and season, we intentionally do not list specific species on our website.
freshwater snails occur in a wide range of freshwater environments around the world, including ponds, ditches, lakes, rivers, streams, marshes and pools. Their presence is determined by factors such as water quality, food availability, presence of predators and other ecological conditions. Some species can even adapt to brackish water. Because they are accustomed to a natural, freshwater environment, they are perfect for a healthy pond.
Want to know how to make the habitat in your pond even more attractive to freshwater snails? Then do our online pond check.
Posthorn snails have a distinctive, coiled horn-shaped shell and are viviparous, while pool snails have a pointed shell and lay egg masses. Both species feed on algae and dead organic matter and are very effective in regulating algae in the pond. Thus, the function of both species does not differ substantially, making it unnecessary to choose a specific species. We send the snails based on which are currently the largest and most available in our nursery. Therefore, requests for a specific species we unfortunately cannot offer.
Pond snails come in different shapes and sizes, but on average they reach a length of about 5 centimeters. The actual size of a pond snail can vary depending on the species, living conditions and food availability.
We always ship our snails without water. freshwater snails can survive several days on dry land. They always spit out water after packing and then go into dormancy.
When you put the snails in the pond, they are often still at rest. Sometimes they may then float. Fortunately, this is nothing to worry about! Within 3 days they will sink to the bottom by themselves as they absorb water again.
Consider the following points to make sure your freshwater snails feels at home:
Sufficient plants: A good biological balance in the pond is essential for the survival of snails. Oxygen plants, water lilies and marsh plants are especially recommended. Oxygen plants provide sufficient oxygen to the water, while water lilies helps shade the pond so the water does not get too warm. Marsh plants provide hiding places for snails, and the fallen leaves serve as a natural food source for these animals.
Sufficient substrate at the bottom: Provide a layer of about 10 cm of substrate at the bottom of the pond. This substrate not only houses the necessary pond bacteria, but it also provides a safe environment for snails to hide and move around.
In doubt about whether your pond is set up correctly so that it keeps itself naturally clear and balanced? Do the online pond check.
We do not ship specific species, but deliver the snails that are currently available in our nursery. Because availability depends on growth and season, we intentionally do not list specific species on our website.
freshwater snails you can purchase all year round, except in the middle of winter when the temperature is below freezing. Just before winter is a good time, because then the snails have plenty of time to get used to the water temperature in the pond. In the spring, they can then get right to work keeping the pond clean.
For freshwater snails to survive well, a pond must be at least 40 cm deep. This depth ensures that the snails have adequate shelter and can withstand temperature changes, especially during colder periods.
It is also important to put a layer of substrate on the bottom so that the snails can burrow in when it gets colder. Also provide adequate plantings and a well-designed pond to create a healthy habitat for the snails.
Want to know step by step how to go about it? Then check out our handy pond check.