Brotia herculea 4–5 cm Wild is a large freshwater snail originating from South-East Asia. With its thick shell, usually dark brown with lighter stripes, it adds a very natural touch to Asian river-style aquariums. Robust and discreet, it helps clean the décor by grazing on biofilm and organic debris.

Behaviour and care

Brotia herculea is a calm, non-aggressive species that fits well in peaceful community tanks. It spends most of its time moving over the substrate, rocks and roots in search of food. It does not attack fish, but may nibble very delicate or decaying leaves if food is lacking.

• Best kept in a small group in a well-filtered aquarium.
• Use a non-cutting substrate (sand or rounded gravel) to protect the foot.
• Good oxygenation and moderate flow are appreciated.

Recommended water parameters

• Temperature: 22 – 28 °C
• pH: 7.0 – 8.0
• GH: 8 – 15 °dGH
• KH: 4 – 10 °KH
• Minimum volume: 60 L for a small group

Like all snails, it is sensitive to copper-based treatments. Sufficient mineral content (calcium) in the water is essential to prevent fragile or pitted shells.

Feeding

A detritus-oriented omnivore, Brotia herculea mainly feeds on biofilm, soft algae and leftover food.

• Green algae and microfilm on rocks, roots and glass.
• Supplements: sinking wafers and vegetable-based tablets.
• Blanched vegetables (courgette, cucumber, spinach) and spirulina-rich tablets.

Avoid letting it starve in very clean tanks: regular feeding on the bottom is recommended.

Care sheet – Brotia herculea

AquaBota tip

To keep the shell strong and well coloured, maintain appropriate hardness and, if necessary, add a calcium source (oyster shells, limestone rocks) or a mineralising water conditioner. Also monitor nitrate levels: good tank maintenance will help extend the lifespan of your Brotia.