Common name: Miniature Melo

General information

The Miniature Melo, Puperita pupa, is a small marine gastropod that belongs to the family Cystiscidae. This species is known for its attractive, glossy shell which can range in color from white to pale yellow, often with brown spiral bands. The shell's compact size and distinctive pattern make it a charming addition to any reef aquarium.

Care

Caring for Miniature Melo snails involves maintaining a stable marine environment with clean, well-oxygenated water. They are scavengers by nature and will feed on detritus, uneaten food, and decomposing organic matter, helping to keep the tank clean. It's important to ensure that there are no aggressive tank mates that may harm these small snails.

Reproduction

Puperita pupa is capable of reproducing in the home aquarium. They are protandric hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as males and can later become females. Breeding can occur if a stable and suitable environment is provided, but raising the offspring can be challenging due to their small size and specific larval requirements.

Habitat

In the wild, Miniature Melo snails are typically found in shallow, tropical marine waters, often in seagrass beds or on sandy substrates. They are distributed across the Indo-Pacific region. In the aquarium, they do not require a large space but do need a substrate similar to their natural habitat for foraging and resting.