Common name: Bruised Nassa

Care

The Bruised Nassa is an easy-to-care-for species that thrives in a well-maintained marine aquarium. It requires a sandy substrate to exhibit its natural burrowing behavior, which also helps aerate the sand and prevent the buildup of harmful gases. These snails are highly tolerant of a range of water conditions but prefer stable parameters typical of reef aquariums.

They are best kept in tanks with a mature sand bed, as this provides ample detritus for them to scavenge. While they are peaceful and reef-safe, care should be taken to avoid housing them with aggressive predators, such as certain wrasses or triggerfish, that may view them as a snack.

Diet and Feeding

The Bruised Nassa is a detritivore, feeding primarily on leftover food, decaying organic matter, and other detritus in the substrate. This natural scavenging behavior makes it an excellent member of a cleanup crew. In cases where the tank does not produce enough detritus, supplemental feeding with sinking pellets or small pieces of meaty foods, such as shrimp or fish, can be provided.

Feed sparingly, as overfeeding can lead to poor water quality. The Bruised Nassa is highly efficient at finding food, even burrowing through the sand to locate hidden morsels.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Bruised Nassa is a peaceful and highly active scavenger. It spends much of its time buried in the sand, emerging when it detects food in the water column. This behavior is not only fascinating to observe but also beneficial for maintaining a healthy substrate.

These snails are compatible with a wide range of tank mates, including other invertebrates, fish, and corals. They are entirely reef-safe and pose no threat to live corals or other desirable tank inhabitants. However, they should not be kept with predatory species that may prey on them.

Reproduction

In captivity, the Bruised Nassa may lay eggs on hard surfaces, but successful rearing of the larvae is rare. The larvae are planktonic and require specific conditions that are difficult to replicate in a home aquarium. As a result, most hobbyists rely on purchasing additional snails rather than attempting to breed them.

Health and Common Issues

The Bruised Nassa is a hardy species with few health issues when kept in a stable environment. However, they are sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters, particularly salinity and temperature. Maintaining consistent water quality is key to their long-term health.

When selecting a Bruised Nassa, look for active individuals with intact shells and no visible damage. Avoid snails that appear lethargic or have damaged shells, as these may indicate poor health.

Habitat

In the wild, the Bruised Nassa is found in sandy or muddy substrates in shallow coastal waters. Its natural range includes the western Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean. These environments are characterized by warm, stable temperatures and moderate water flow, conditions that can be easily replicated in a home aquarium.

Providing a sandy substrate and stable water conditions will help mimic their natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors.