White Herculea Snail ( Brotia Herculea)

A Rare & Impressive River Snail for the Serious Collector

The White Herculea Snail (Brotia herculea) is one of the most striking and sought-after freshwater snails in the hobby. Native to the fast-flowing rivers of Southeast Asia, this large, robust snail features a beautifully textured, elongated shell in creamy white to ivory tones — a truly impressive specimen that commands attention in any aquarium. As a member of the Brotia genus, it is a true river snail that thrives in well-oxygenated, clean water with moderate to strong flow.

A rewarding and unusual invertebrate for the dedicated aquarist looking to go beyond the ordinary.

Overview

Behaviour & Care Notes

• Primarily a detritivore — feeds on organic detritus, biofilm, leftover food, and decaying matter; prefers protein-based supplemental foods
• Sand or fine gravel substrate recommended — they burrow and forage through the substrate actively
• Requires well-oxygenated water with moderate to strong flow — mimics their natural fast-river habitat; stagnant or low-flow tanks are not suitable
• May remain tucked inside their shell for the first 5 – 24 hours after introduction — completely normal acclimation behaviour
• Once settled, they become active foragers, moving across the substrate and tank surfaces
• Sensitive to poor water quality — regular water changes and good filtration are essential

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22 – 28°C (71.6 – 82.4°F)
• pH: 6.5 – 7.2
• General Hardness (GH): 3 – 10 dGH
• Carbonate Hardness (KH): 1 – 2
• TDS: 100 – 300 ppm
• Flow: Moderate to strong — essential for this species
• Oxygenation: High — use a powerhead, spray bar, or surface agitation

Diet & Feeding

• Primary: Detritus, biofilm, and organic matter naturally present in the tank
• Supplement: Sinking shrimp pellets, bottom feeder wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and frozen bloodworms
• Calcium: Adequate mineral content in the water is important for healthy shell development; cuttlebone can be added as a supplement

Compatibility

• Peaceful with all community fish, nano fish, and dwarf shrimp
• Plant-safe — will not damage aquatic plants
• Avoid keeping with snail-eating species such as pufferfish, large cichlids, or assassin snails

The White Herculea Snail is a rare, impressive, and genuinely fascinating invertebrate — a collector’s snail that brings size, elegance, and natural behaviour to any well-maintained freshwater aquarium.