Snail – Tiger Cowry

Tiger Cowry Snail Care Tips:

Minimum Tank Size: 40 Gallons

Max Size: Up to 12cm (4″)

Diet: Omnivore (Known to eat Zoanthids and GSP if there is insufficient food)

Temperament: Peaceful

Lifespan: Up to 20 years

Scientific Name: Cyprea Tigris

Coral Safe: No

Invertebrate Safe: Yes

Tiger cowry snails are one of the large snail species rarely seen in the aquarium trade. Their scientific name is Cyprea Tigris but they are often referred to as the tiger cowry. They come from the Cypraeidae family. These snails can get up to 4” long and can live up to 20 years. These snails are omnivores, they will eat algae and meaty leftovers, These snails due to their size are one of the few snails that will quickly make a huge dent in a large tank that has tons of algae built up. If sufficient food isn’t present in the tank they can be supplemented with algae/meaty rocks. They have been known to eat zoanthids and GSP if there isn’t sufficient food present in the tank as well but most coral they will leave alone. They have a minimum tank size of 20 gallons. These snails are peaceful but are not considered reef safe because of their diet. These snails are safe for invertebrates but not for all species of coral. Tiger cowrys prefer to stay on the rocks or the glass and are nocturnal. Tiger Cowrys have a mantle that will stretch from the base of their shell, reaching to meet in the middle at the top of their shell. This mantle has papillae on it that will be seen during ideal conditions. Not seeing this mantle ever is a sign that the Tiger Cowry is not getting optimal conditions. When frightened or disturbed their mantle will retract to underneath their shell, but it should return once the disturbance has gone away. These snails should be flipped if seen upside down.