Snails brown on shell chipping off!

Question

I have a 75 gallon tank with a ton of plants. i've noticed that the snails shell's start off as brown then the brown chips off and leaves it white.

now i know this isn't good because they die soon after. and i like my snails. so what can i do to keep the shells brown?

thank you!

Answer 1

Is this a Marine or Freshwater system? The snails may need calcium, and if it's marine, the snails might have some extra needs. What species of snail are you referring to?  

Answer 2

If it's a freshwater aquarium, you can do a couple of things. First, the PH needs to be at least 7.0 or the shell will dissolve which may be part of what you are seeing. If your PH is lower than that, you can raise it by adding 1tsp. of baking soda per 10gallons. But be sure your other fish can tolerate the PH. You can also add cuttlebone (the type they sell for birds) to your tank for the snails to munch on, this will help them with the calcium they need to build their shells. Besides that, I use Kent Marine Liquid Calcium, yes it's for saltwater, but if you don't follow the dosage, just put a few drops in per week, it won't hurt them and will help. To make the shells really smooth and shiny (as well as for health), I also put 1 drop of Iodide (again, Kent Marine formula) per 10 gallons each week into the tank. The iodide and calcium shouldn't bother your fish or any plants. You don't need to add the baking soda each week unless the PH goes down, or you do a water change.

Answer 3

it s natural sorry no stoping

Answer 4

they need calcium

try feeding them veges that contain calcium

Answer 5

Get some type of calcium additive for your water.

Answer 6

I am sorry but there is nothing that you can do about it, it is a natural process