Assassin Snail (Clea helena)

Assassin Snail (Clea helena)

Common Name: Assassin Snail
Scientific Name: Clea helena
Size: 0.75–1.25 inches (adult)
Origin: Southeast Asia – Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia
Temperament: Peaceful toward fish, predatory toward other snails
Tank Size: 10+ gallons
Water Conditions:

• Temperature: 72–80°F (22–27°C)

• pH: 7.0–8.0

• Hardness: 6–15 dGH

The Assassin Snail is a popular and efficient solution for aquarists dealing with pest snail infestations. Sporting a distinctive cone-shaped shell with alternating brown and yellow bands, this little predator is as stylish as it is useful. It blends into the substrate, waiting to ambush smaller snails—hence the name "assassin."

Despite its fearsome feeding habits, the Assassin Snail is peaceful toward fish and shrimp, making it an excellent addition to most freshwater community tanks.

Fun Facts:

• Assassin Snails are carnivorous and specialize in eating pest snails like bladder, ramshorn, and Malaysian trumpet snails.

• They can bury themselves in the substrate to stalk prey or avoid light.

• They reproduce slowly compared to pest snails, so population control is easy.

• Though mostly solitary, they can be kept in groups to increase effectiveness against infestations.

Diet:
Carnivorous—feeds on pest snails, leftover fish food, bloodworms, and other meaty foods. Supplemental feeding may be needed if no pest snails are present.

Compatibility:
Safe with peaceful fish, shrimp, and most community tankmates. Avoid housing with other shell-based invertebrates you want to keep.

Looking for natural pest control?
The Assassin Snail is a low-maintenance, attractive, and effective way to keep unwanted snail populations in check—naturally and safely.