Common name: Chambered nautilus

General information

The Chambered Nautilus, Nautilus pompilius, is a fascinating and ancient invertebrate that has captivated aquarists and scientists alike. It is known for its beautiful, spiral shell and its status as a living fossil, having remained relatively unchanged for millions of years. This species is part of the Nautilidae family and is one of the few remaining representatives of the nautiloids, a group that was once highly diverse during the Paleozoic era.

Care

Keeping a Chambered Nautilus in a home aquarium is challenging and requires a specialized setup. They need a deep, cold-water tank with minimal lighting to mimic their natural deep-sea environment. The water temperature should be kept between 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit. They are sensitive to rapid changes in water quality and temperature, so a stable, well-maintained system is crucial. Nautiluses are also escape artists, so a secure lid is essential.

Reproduction

In the wild, Nautilus pompilius lays eggs that are attached to rocks or coral in deep water. The eggs take about a year to hatch, and the young nautiluses are miniature versions of the adults. Breeding them in captivity is extremely rare and difficult, with few successful cases reported.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Chambered Nautilus spans the Indo-Pacific region, from the Andaman Sea to Fiji and from Japan to the Great Barrier Reef. They are usually found at depths of 100 to 500 meters, where they inhabit the slopes of coral reefs during the day and ascend to shallower waters at night to feed.