Orange Spotted Snail (Notopala sp."Orange spotted")

Orange Spotted Snail — A Rare and Stunning Gem from Papua

Exotic, eye-catching, and wonderfully unique, the Orange Spotted Snail (Notopala sp. "Orange Spotted") is one of the most beautiful and unusual freshwater snails in the hobby. Hailing from the rivers and streams of Papua, Indonesia, this striking viviparid snail displays a pink to reddish-brown shell paired with a deep blue-black body adorned with shimmering golden speckles — a colour combination that makes it look almost jewel-like in a well-lit aquarium.

Hardy, peaceful, and beginner-friendly, the Orange Spotted Snail is a living work of art that also serves as a gentle and effective algae grazer — beautiful and functional in equal measure.

Care at a Glance

• Common Name: Orange Spotted Snail, Papua Orange Spot Snail
• Scientific Name: Notopala sp. "Orange Spotted" (family Viviparidae)
• Origin: Papua, Indonesia
• Shell Colour: Pink to reddish-brown
• Body Colour: Dark blue-black with golden speckles
• pH: Above 7.5 (alkaline water essential for shell health)
• General Hardness (GH): 6 – 22
• Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3 – 15
• Temperature: 20 – 28°C (68 – 82°F)
• Minimum Tank Size: 15 litres (4 gallons)
• Temperament: Very peaceful
• Breeding: Livebearer — gives birth to fully formed juvenile snails in freshwater
• Difficulty: Beginner – Easy

Tank & Setup Tips

Orange Spotted Snails thrive in clean, well-filtered water with a pH above 7.5 — alkaline, moderately hard water is essential to maintain their shell integrity and prevent erosion. Avoid soft or acidic water, which will damage the shell over time. Regular water changes and stable parameters keep them healthy and active.

They appreciate a tank with natural algae growth on rocks and glass, smooth substrate for grazing, and some open swimming space. Avoid copper-based medications, which are lethal to all snails and invertebrates.

Feeding

Omnivorous grazers. Feed on algae growth, biofilm, and decaying plant matter naturally present in the tank. Supplement with blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach), brown autumn leaves, algae wafers, and snail-specific paste foods. Feed every 1–2 days, removing uneaten food promptly.

Compatible Tank Mates

Extremely peaceful and compatible with a wide range of tank inhabitants. Ideal companions include dwarf shrimp (Neocaridina, Caridina), other peaceful snails, freshwater mussels, and small to medium peaceful fish. Avoid pufferfish, large cichlids, or any species known to eat snails.

Breeding

A livebearer — females give birth to fully formed, miniature juvenile snails directly in freshwater. No eggs, no larval stage. Population growth is slow and manageable, making them an excellent choice for community tanks without risk of overpopulation.

📸 Photos are for reference only. Actual snails may vary slightly in colour and shell pattern — each one is uniquely beautiful!