Stomatella Snail
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Specific Name: Stomatella varia (and closely related species)
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Diet: Herbivore – film algae, diatoms, and soft green algae
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Pest or Good Guy: ✅ Very Good Guy
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Size: 1–2.5 cm
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Breed in Captivity: Yes – often reproduces in healthy reef tanks
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Cautions: Often mistaken for slugs or pests; may be eaten by wrasses or crabs
Description:
Stomatella snails are reef gold—small, fast, and efficient grazers that multiply quietly in healthy systems. With a soft, flattened body and a tiny hidden shell on their back, they look more like sea slugs than snails, which leads many reefers to misidentify or remove them. Don’t! These snails are peaceful, algae-loving machines that thrive in reef tanks, especially when algae is present but not overwhelming. They’re mostly nocturnal and incredibly quick for a snail, often darting into rockwork when disturbed. Best of all, they reproduce readily and maintain their own population without ever overwhelming the system. If you spot one, consider it a win.