What’s the ideal way to remove snails from a fish tank? I’ve got a bunch of them, should I just pull them out or is there any other way that I’m not aware of?
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What’s the ideal way to remove snails from a fish tank? I’ve got a bunch of them, should I just pull them out or is there any other way that I’m not aware of?
I use a combination of manual removal and veggie bait. I recommend manual removal for pet stails.
If you have a lot, it might be easier to set a piece of lettuce or cucumber in the tank overnight. The snails will be attracted to it, and in the morning you can just lift the veggie out with most of the snails clinging to it. Way less stress for them!
To david’s point, I’ve found cucumbers work best. Slice them thin and use a spoon or pick to gently lift them out.
I second the veggie method! Works like a charm and it’s kind to the snails. Just be sure to wash the vegetables thoroughly to avoid introducing any pesticides or chemicals into your tank.
Pulling them out by hand can work, but if there are a lot of them a net is the safe option. I get out my apple snails by slightly touching their foot muscle, they sense this and stop sticking to things when trying to hide inside the shell, and then I take them out. I do this rarely, when replanting or deep-cleaning the substrate.
Thanks 🙂
Be careful if you’re just pulling them out by hand. Some snails can clamp down pretty hard, and yanking them can hurt both the snail and the plants or decorations they’re attached to.
Hi, what snails exactly are you referring to? are they pests or pet snails?
Pet snails
A soft net works best to gently scoop them out without damaging their shells.