Bumblebee Snail (Engina mendicaria) – Complete Care Guide

General Information

The Bumblebee Snail (Engina mendicaria) is a small, strikingly patterned marine gastropod that has gained popularity among reefkeepers for its unique appearance and utility in maintaining a clean aquarium. Its black-and-yellow striped shell gives it the appearance of a bumblebee, making it a visually appealing addition to any tank. These snails are native to the Indo-Pacific region, where they inhabit sandy and rocky substrates in shallow reef environments.

In the aquarium trade, Bumblebee Snails are often sought after for their ability to help control vermetid snails, a common nuisance in reef tanks. While they are not a guaranteed solution to vermetid infestations, their scavenging behavior can contribute to overall tank cleanliness. Their small size and peaceful nature make them compatible with a wide range of tank mates, including fish, corals, and other invertebrates.

Care

Bumblebee Snails are relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with stable water parameters and plenty of live rock or sandy substrate to explore. These snails are nocturnal by nature, so they are most active during the evening and night, spending their days hiding in crevices or burrowing in the substrate.

To ensure their well-being, provide a tank with sufficient detritus and microfauna for them to feed on. While they are hardy and adaptable, sudden changes in water conditions should be avoided, as they can be sensitive to fluctuations in salinity, pH, and temperature.

Diet and Feeding

Bumblebee Snails are opportunistic scavengers, feeding on detritus, uneaten food, and biofilm. They may also consume small vermetid snails, which makes them a useful addition to tanks dealing with these pests. However, they should not be relied upon as the sole method of vermetid control.

Supplement their diet with sinking pellets, frozen foods, or algae wafers if natural food sources are insufficient. Feeding is generally not a concern in a well-maintained reef tank, as these snails will forage for food on their own.

Behavior and Compatibility

Bumblebee Snails are peaceful and non-aggressive, making them ideal for community tanks. They coexist well with other invertebrates and fish, provided they are not housed with species that may prey on them, such as certain wrasses or triggerfish. Their small size and slow movement make them vulnerable to predation, so care should be taken when selecting tank mates.

These snails are solitary and do not require the company of their own kind, although they can be kept in small groups without issue. Their nocturnal habits mean they are less likely to be seen during the day, but they play an important role in maintaining the tank's ecosystem by scavenging at night.

Health and Common Issues

Bumblebee Snails are hardy and long-lived when provided with proper care. They can live for several years in captivity, provided they are housed in a stable environment with adequate food sources. Common health issues include shell damage and stress from poor water quality or predation.

When selecting Bumblebee Snails, look for individuals with intact, brightly colored shells and active behavior. Avoid snails that appear lethargic or have damaged shells, as these may be signs of poor health.

Habitat

In the wild, Bumblebee Snails are found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting sandy and rocky substrates in shallow reef environments. They prefer areas with plenty of hiding spots and a rich supply of detritus and microfauna to feed on. Replicating these conditions in a home aquarium will help ensure their health and longevity.

Common name: Bumblebee Snail