Aquatic snails and crustaceans are diverse groups of invertebrates that inhabit freshwater and marine environments. They play important roles in aquatic ecosystems and can be of interest in aquaculture, aquarium keeping, and research. Here is an overview of aquatic snails and crustaceans:
Aquatic Snails:
Aquatic snails are gastropod mollusks that inhabit freshwater, brackish, and marine environments. They are characterized by their coiled shells and a muscular foot used for locomotion. Some common types of aquatic snails include:
1. Apple Snail (Pomacea spp.): Large freshwater snails with round or conical shells and vibrant colors. They are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions.
2. Ramshorn Snail (Planorbidae family): Small to medium-sized snails with flat, coiled shells resembling a ram's horn. They come in various colors and are often found in freshwater aquariums.
3. Mystery Snail (Pomacea bridgesii): Freshwater snails with large, round shells and a wide range of colors. They are popular in aquariums due to their appealing appearance.
4. Trumpet Snail (Melanoides spp.): Small, elongated snails with cone-shaped shells. They are known for burrowing into the substrate of freshwater aquariums and help to aerate the gravel.
5. Nerite Snail (Neritidae family): Small to medium-sized snails with round shells featuring intricate patterns. They are commonly found in both freshwater and marine environments.
6. Assassin Snail (Clea helena): A predatory snail known for preying on other snails. They have a conical shell and are often used in aquariums to control snail populations.
7. Malaysian Trumpet Snail (Melanoides tuberculata): Another species of snail known for burrowing in the substrate of freshwater aquariums. They help to prevent anaerobic conditions by stirring up the gravel.