Pagoda Snail (Brotia pagodula)

Exotic, Architectural, and Utterly Unique

The Pagoda Snail (Brotia pagodula) is one of the most visually striking freshwater snails in the aquarium hobby. Named for its tall, tower-like shell adorned with distinctive ridges and pointed spines arranged in tiers — reminiscent of an Asian pagoda — this snail is a living sculpture that adds a prehistoric, otherworldly beauty to any aquarium. A true collector’s invertebrate and a genuine conversation piece.

Overview

Appearance

The Pagoda Snail’s shell is its defining feature — a tall, conical spire with pronounced ridges and pointed tubercles arranged in rows, creating a dramatic pagoda-like silhouette unlike any other freshwater snail. Shell colouration ranges from dark brown to olive-green, often with a textured, stone-like surface. Each individual is unique, and their architectural beauty makes them a standout specimen in planted tanks and aquascapes alike.

Water Parameters & Tank Setup

• Temperature: 22 – 26°C (72 – 79°F)
• pH: 7.0 – 8.0 (slightly alkaline water important for shell health)
• General Hardness (GH): 8 – 20 dGH
• Tank Size: 75 L (20 gallons) minimum
• Flow: Moderate to strong — native to fast-flowing rivers; good water movement and oxygenation are essential
• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel; smooth rocks and driftwood for grazing surfaces
• Water quality: Sensitive to poor water quality — a mature, well-established tank with regular water changes is essential

Diet & Feeding

• Primary: Biofilm, algae, and organic matter on rocks, driftwood, and hard surfaces
• Supplement: Algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and sinking pellets
• Calcium: Cuttlebone or crushed coral helps maintain their impressive shell structure — especially important in softer water

Compatibility

• Completely peaceful with all community fish, nano fish, and dwarf shrimp (Neocaridina and Caridina)
• Compatible with other snail species
• Avoid snail-eating species such as pufferfish, loaches, and assassin snails

Breeding

Pagoda Snails are livebearers — they give birth to fully formed miniature snails rather than laying eggs. Reproduction is slow and self-regulating, making them an ideal choice for aquarists who want snails without the risk of population explosions.

The Pagoda Snail is a collector’s gem — a living architectural marvel that brings exotic, prehistoric beauty and genuine character to any freshwater aquarium.