Quilted Melania Snail
The Quilted Melania Snail (Tarebia granifera) is a small, cone-shaped snail similar to Malaysian Trumpet Snails. These snails burrow through substrate and eat excess food that settles at the bottom of the tank.
Key Specifications:
| Minimum Tank Size | 1 Gallon |
|---|---|
| Maximum Fish Size | 1 inch |
| Water Temperature | 65F – 85F |
| Ideal pH | 7.0 – 8.0 |
| Water Hardness | 5 – 35 dGH |
| Temperament | Peaceful, bottom feeder. May reproduce quickly and be considered a ‘pest’ species. |
These snails breed rapidly and do not require males for reproduction. They are effective at cleaning excess food from the substrate.
FAQ
Can Quilted Melania Snails be kept with other aquarium inhabitants?
Yes, they are peaceful and generally compatible with most community fish and invertebrates. However, due to their rapid reproduction, they may become numerous and require regular monitoring.
How long does it take for Quilted Melania Snails to establish themselves in a new tank?
They begin to establish and reproduce within a few weeks. It’s recommended to cycle the tank before introducing them to ensure stable water conditions.
Are Quilted Melania Snails suitable for beginners?
They are suitable for beginners due to their low maintenance and ability to clean the tank. However, their fast reproduction may require attention to population control.

Harry Payne –
Great for cleaning the bottom of the tank. They eat leftover food and keep the substrate clean. I noticed a few more snails after a few weeks, but that’s expected. Easy to care for and work well in a 1-gallon tank.
Warren Johnston –
Helped reduce algae and uneaten food. They’re active and don’t seem to harm other tank inhabitants. A bit of a population increase, but manageable with regular observation.
Austin Glover –
They do clean the tank well, but I had to remove a few after a month because they were multiplying too fast. Still useful for maintenance, just keep an eye on numbers.