Common name: Giant Helmet

General information

The Horned Helmet, Cassis cornuta, is a large sea snail known for its impressive and distinctive shell. The shell is characterized by its large size, solid structure, and long, curved projections or 'horns' which give this species its common name. The coloration of the shell is typically a creamy or yellowish base with brown stripes or blotches. This snail is a member of the family Cassidae, which are commonly referred to as helmet snails due to their helmet-like shells.

Care

In the aquarium, Cassis cornuta requires a spacious tank with a sandy substrate to mimic its natural environment. It is a carnivorous species, feeding primarily on echinoderms such as sea urchins, starfish, and sand dollars. Providing a diet that includes these items is essential for their well-being. Due to their size and dietary needs, they are best suited for larger, well-established aquariums with a stable ecosystem.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Cassis cornuta involves the laying of egg capsules, which are often attached to hard substrates. The larvae that emerge are planktonic before settling and metamorphosing into juvenile snails. In the aquarium setting, breeding is not commonly observed, and the reproductive behaviors of this species are not well-documented in captivity.

Symbiosis

While not known for any specific symbiotic relationships, the Horned Helmet's role as a predator helps control populations of echinoderms, which can sometimes become pests in reef aquariums.

Habitat

The natural habitat of Cassis cornuta spans across the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern coast of Africa, including Madagascar, to the western Pacific. They are typically found in shallow waters, often in sandy areas near coral reefs where they can easily burrow and hunt for prey.