Common name: Knobbed Triton
General Information
The Knobbed Triton, scientifically known as Gutturnium muricinum, is a fascinating marine gastropod mollusk belonging to the family Cymatiidae. This species is renowned for its robust, knobby shell adorned with intricate ridges and spines, making it a striking addition to any marine aquarium. Its natural habitat spans coral reefs and rocky substrates in tropical and subtropical waters, where it plays an important role as a predator of echinoderms like sea stars.
While not as commonly kept as other marine invertebrates, the Knobbed Triton is occasionally sought after by aquarists for its unique appearance and ecological role. It is especially valued in reef environments for its ability to control populations of certain pest species, such as the Acanthaster planci, which can devastate coral reefs if left unchecked.
Details
- Estimated price
- Moderate Rarely available, price varies by size and sourcing
- Recommended minimum volume
- 100 liter (26 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.5
- Average size
- 15 cm (6″)
- Care level
- Moderate to difficult Requires specific care due to its predatory nature
- Diet
- Carnivore Feeds on echinoderms like sea stars and sea urchins
- Reefsafe
- Yes May prey on small invertebrates
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Territorial and predatory, may attack small invertebrates
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumMollusksMollusca
- ClassGastropodsGastropoda
- OrderSnailsLittorinimorpha
- FamilyTriton's Trumpet SnailsRanellidae
- GenusTriton Trumpet SnailsGutturnium Mörch, 1852
- SpeciesKnobbed TritonGutturnium muricinum (Röding, 1798)
- SynonymsAfrocanidea gemma Connolly, 1929Cymatium antillarum Orbigny, 1842Cymatium muricinum (Röding, 1798)Cymatium productum Gould, 1852Cymatium pyriformis Conrad, 1849Cymatium tuberosum (Lamarck, 1822)Distorsio muricina Röding, 1798Eutritonium tuberosum (Lamarck, 1822)Gutturinium muricinum (Röding, 1798)Litiopa obesa C.B.Adams, 1850Ranella gyrinata Risso, 1826Ranularia muricina (Röding, 1798)Ranularia tuberosus (Lamarck, 1822)Simpulum antillarum (d'Orbigny, 1842)Triton albocingulatum Deshayes, 1863Triton antillarum d'Orbigny, 1842Triton crispus Reeve, 1844Triton productum Gould, 1852Triton tuberosum Lamarck, 1822
- Source: GBIF | Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Care
The Knobbed Triton is a hardy species but requires specific care to thrive in captivity. It is best housed in a well-established marine aquarium with plenty of live rock and sandy substrate to mimic its natural environment. As a predator, it is not suitable for tanks with small, slow-moving invertebrates or fish, as these may become prey. This species is best suited for advanced aquarists who can provide a carefully monitored environment.
Diet and Feeding
In the wild, the Knobbed Triton primarily preys on echinoderms, including sea stars and sea urchins. In captivity, it can be fed a diet of meaty foods such as chopped shrimp, squid, and other marine-based proteins. It is essential to provide a varied diet to ensure its nutritional needs are met. Feeding should occur every few days, depending on the size and activity level of the individual.
Behavior and Compatibility
The Knobbed Triton is a solitary and territorial species. It is generally peaceful towards other tank inhabitants but can become aggressive if it feels threatened or if its territory is encroached upon. Due to its predatory nature, it should not be housed with small or delicate invertebrates, as they may be at risk of predation. It is compatible with larger, robust tank mates that can tolerate its presence.
Reproduction
Little is known about the reproduction of Gutturnium muricinum in captivity. In the wild, females lay egg capsules on hard surfaces, which hatch into free-swimming larvae. Breeding this species in a home aquarium is challenging and has rarely been documented.
Health and Common Issues
The Knobbed Triton is generally hardy but can be sensitive to poor water quality and sudden changes in environmental conditions. Maintaining stable water parameters and providing a clean, well-oxygenated environment are crucial for its health. It is also essential to monitor for signs of stress or disease, such as lethargy or a lack of appetite, and address any issues promptly.
Habitat
Naturally found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific, the Knobbed Triton inhabits coral reefs, rocky substrates, and sandy areas. It prefers environments with plenty of hiding spots and moderate water flow, which mimic the conditions of its natural habitat.