Common name: Harpago Chiragra

General information

The Harpago chiragra, commonly known as the Chiragra Spider Conch, is a fascinating marine invertebrate that is prized in the reefkeeping hobby for its unique appearance and behavior. This species belongs to the family Strombidae and is known for its large, ornate shell with elongated spires and a robust, curved body. The shell's intricate patterns and colors can add an exotic touch to any aquarium.

Care

Caring for a Chiragra Spider Conch requires a well-established reef tank with a sandy substrate where it can burrow and search for food. They are generally peaceful and can coexist with a variety of tank mates. However, they should not be kept with aggressive species that may harm them. A diet of algae and detritus will keep them healthy, and they are known to help control algae growth in the aquarium.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Harpago chiragra is not commonly observed in home aquariums. In the wild, they are known to lay eggs in gelatinous masses that later hatch into free-swimming larvae. These larvae go through several planktonic stages before settling to the bottom and metamorphosing into their adult form.

Symbiosis

While not known for any specific symbiotic relationships, the Chiragra Spider Conch plays an important role in the tank's ecosystem by helping to keep the sand bed clean and aerated, which can benefit other tank inhabitants.

Habitat

Harpago chiragra is native to the Indo-Pacific region, where it inhabits sandy areas and seagrass beds in shallow waters. They are often found in reef environments, where they contribute to the overall health of the ecosystem by consuming detritus and algae.