Chiragra Spider Conch (Harpago chiragra) – Complete Care Guide

General Information

The Chiragra Spider Conch (Harpago chiragra) is a fascinating marine gastropod that belongs to the family Strombidae, commonly known as conchs. This species is renowned for its striking shell adorned with long, spiny projections, giving it a spider-like appearance. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, it is often found in shallow, sandy lagoons and coral reef environments. Its unique shell makes it a popular choice among shell collectors, but it is also occasionally kept in marine aquariums for its intriguing appearance and behavior.

The Chiragra Spider Conch plays an important role in its natural ecosystem by grazing on algae and detritus, helping to maintain a balanced environment. Its presence in the aquarium trade is relatively limited, but it is valued for its aesthetic appeal and its contribution to algae control in reef tanks.

Care

Caring for the Chiragra Spider Conch requires a well-established marine aquarium with a sandy substrate, as this species spends much of its time burrowing and grazing along the bottom. It thrives in tanks with stable water parameters and moderate flow, which mimic its natural habitat. Providing ample open space and a sandy bottom is essential to accommodate its burrowing behavior and to prevent damage to its delicate shell spines.

This species is relatively hardy and can adapt to a range of conditions, making it suitable for intermediate aquarists. However, care should be taken to ensure that the substrate is free of sharp objects that could harm its soft body or shell.

Diet and Feeding

The Chiragra Spider Conch is primarily a herbivore, feeding on algae and detritus in the wild. In captivity, it will graze on algae growing on rocks and the substrate, helping to keep the aquarium clean. Supplement its diet with algae wafers, spirulina, and other plant-based foods to ensure it receives adequate nutrition. Feeding is generally straightforward, as this species is not picky and will readily consume available plant matter.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Chiragra Spider Conch is a peaceful and solitary species that spends most of its time grazing along the substrate. It is non-aggressive and can be safely housed with a variety of reef-safe fish, invertebrates, and corals. However, care should be taken to avoid housing it with predatory species that may target it due to its slow movement and soft body parts.

This species is not known to exhibit any toxic or harmful behaviors, making it a safe addition to community reef tanks. Its unique shell and slow, deliberate movements add an interesting dynamic to the aquarium.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, the Chiragra Spider Conch can live for several years in captivity. Maintaining stable water parameters and providing a suitable diet are key to its health and longevity. Common issues include shell damage, which can occur if the substrate is too rough or if the conch is handled improperly. Regular observation and gentle handling (if necessary) can help prevent such problems.

This species is generally hardy but may be susceptible to poor water quality and sudden changes in salinity or temperature. Regular water changes and monitoring of tank conditions are essential to prevent stress and disease.

Habitat

The Chiragra Spider Conch is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Red Sea, East Africa, and the western Pacific Ocean. It inhabits sandy and rubble substrates in shallow lagoons and coral reef environments, typically at depths of up to 20 meters. Its natural habitat is characterized by warm, clear waters with moderate currents, which provide an ideal environment for grazing and burrowing.

Replicating these conditions in captivity involves providing a sandy substrate, moderate water flow, and stable water parameters. This will help ensure the conch's health and well-being in a home aquarium.

Common name: Chiragra Spider Conch