Brown Pacific Turbo (Turbo bruneus) – Complete Care Guide

General Information

The Turbo bruneus, commonly known as the Brown Pacific Turbo or Brown Pacific Turban, is a popular choice among reefkeepers for its exceptional algae-eating abilities. This marine gastropod belongs to the family Turbinidae and is often sought after for its utility in maintaining clean and healthy aquariums. Its sturdy, rounded shell with a brownish hue and subtle patterns makes it an attractive addition to any tank, blending well with natural reef aesthetics.

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Turbo bruneus is highly valued for its role in controlling nuisance algae, such as hair algae and diatoms, which can otherwise overrun aquariums. This species is a hardy and low-maintenance addition, making it suitable for aquarists of all experience levels.

Care

The Brown Pacific Turbo thrives in well-established aquariums with stable water parameters and plenty of live rock. These snails are nocturnal by nature, often hiding during the day and becoming more active at night as they graze on algae. They require a tank with sufficient algae growth to sustain their diet, although supplemental feeding with algae wafers or nori can be provided if natural algae levels are insufficient.

When introducing Turbo bruneus to your tank, ensure that the aquarium has smooth surfaces and avoid sharp edges, as their soft bodies are vulnerable to injury. Additionally, they are sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters, so proper acclimation is crucial to their health.

Diet and Feeding

As herbivores, Turbo bruneus primarily feeds on algae, including film algae, diatoms, and hair algae. In captivity, they can be supplemented with dried seaweed or algae-based foods if natural algae growth is insufficient. These snails are efficient grazers and can help maintain a clean and balanced aquarium environment.

Feed them sparingly, as overfeeding can lead to water quality issues. Monitor their activity levels and ensure they have enough food to sustain their grazing habits.

Behavior and Compatibility

Brown Pacific Turbos are peaceful and non-aggressive, making them excellent tank mates for a wide variety of reef-safe fish, invertebrates, and corals. They are solitary creatures but can coexist with other snails and herbivorous invertebrates without any issues. However, avoid housing them with predatory species like certain crabs or wrasses that may prey on snails.

Their nocturnal behavior means they are most active during the night, so don't be alarmed if they appear inactive during the day. They are slow-moving but highly effective at cleaning algae from rocks, glass, and other surfaces.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, Turbo bruneus can live for several years in captivity. They are generally hardy but can be sensitive to poor water quality, copper-based medications, and sudden changes in salinity or temperature. Regular water changes and maintaining stable parameters are essential to their health.

When selecting a Brown Pacific Turbo, look for individuals with intact shells and active movement. Avoid snails that appear lethargic or have damaged shells, as these may indicate poor health.

Habitat

In the wild, Turbo bruneus is found in shallow reef environments and rocky intertidal zones across the Indo-Pacific region. They prefer areas with abundant algae growth and moderate water flow. Replicating these conditions in your aquarium will help them thrive.

Common name: Brown Pacific Turbo