Black Margarita Snail (Margarites Pupillus)

Care Level : Easy

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : Black

Diet : Herbivore

Reef Compatible : Yes

Water Conditions : 70-76° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025

Max. Size : 1"

Origin : Eastern Pacific

Family : Trochacea

Supplements : Calcium, Magnesium, Iodine, Trace Elements

Black Margarita Snail (Margarites Pupillus), common name the puppet margarite or the little margarite, is a species of sea snail, a marine gastropod mollusk in the family Margaritidae, the turban snails.

Black Margarita Snail are small marine mollusks. The largest size is around 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length, but, in general, they barely reach 0.8 inches (2 cm). The solid shell has a conical shape and is narrowly umbilicated. Because Black Margarita Snail are often covered with algae, it is almost impossible to see the natural color of their shells. In nature, algal growth on the shell may function as camouflage for predator avoidance.

The Black Margarita Snail is one of the most sought-after home reef inhabitants. This is because they can consume large amounts of algae, including nuisance hair varieties.               

The Black Margarita Snail does well in the home aquarium provided it is well established and has an ample algae source to feed upon. Margarita Snails are not diggers, therefore, they do not have any preference for the substrate.

These little snails can be good companions for shrimp and non-carnivorous fish. They are very peaceful and inoffensive.

Like other invertebrates, the Black Margarita Snail is sensitive to high nitrate levels and copper-based medications. The Black Margarita Snail is sensitive to even small changes in water parameters including pH, temperature, and alkalinity. To promote shell growth, supplement calcium levels in your aquarium.

Generally, Margarita snails do not reproduce in captivity.

Margarites Pupillus is an omnivore/detritivore species. Keep in mind that the Black Margarita Snail will starve if algae levels become sparse. Therefore, supplement their diet with dried seaweed. To feed, use an algae clip or wrap the seaweed around a rock or empty shell and place into your aquarium next to the glass.

Size: 1/2" to 1"