Common name: Thorn Latirus

General information

The Bumblebee Snail, Opeatostoma pseudodon, is a small, strikingly colored marine gastropod known for its black and yellow striped pattern, which resembles the coloration of a bumblebee. This snail is a popular choice among reef aquarium hobbyists due to its scavenging habits and its ability to help control algae and detritus in the tank.

Care

Bumblebee Snails are relatively easy to care for, requiring a well-established aquarium with stable water parameters. They thrive in tanks with live rock and a sandy substrate, which they can sift through for uneaten food and detritus. It's important to ensure that the tank is free of copper-based medications, as these can be harmful to invertebrates.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Bumblebee Snails is not commonly observed in the home aquarium. In the wild, they are known to lay eggs in gelatinous masses, which then develop into free-swimming larvae before settling down and metamorphosing into juvenile snails.

Symbiosis

While not known for any specific symbiotic relationships, Bumblebee Snails contribute to the overall health of the aquarium by cleaning up excess food and detritus, which can help prevent the outbreak of nuisance algae and maintain water quality.

Habitat

Opeatostoma pseudodon is found in tropical marine environments, often in and around coral reefs where they can find ample food sources. They are typically found at various depths, often burrowing in sandy substrates or moving across rock surfaces.