Dwarf Black Rabbit Snail (Tylomelania sp.)

Peaceful, shrimp-safe scavenger with bold Sulawesi character

The Dwarf Black Rabbit Snail is an exotic freshwater snail from Sulawesi, Indonesia, known for its deep black to dark brown coloration, elongated spiral shell, and signature “rabbit-ear” facial tentacles. This dwarf variety stays much smaller than full-size rabbit snails—typically around 1–1.5 inches—making it a great option for planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, and smaller community setups. Slow-moving, calm, and full of personality, it adds a unique focal point without disrupting tank balance.

How They Help Your Aquarium

Dwarf Black Rabbit Snails are gentle but effective members of a clean-up crew.

• Graze on biofilm, soft algae, and detritus
• Help clean the substrate, hardscape, and glass
• Consume leftover food before it breaks down
• Completely plant-safe and shrimp-safe

They work slowly and methodically, making them ideal for mature tanks where stability matters more than speed.

Care & Tank Requirements

Rabbit snails prefer warm, mineral-rich water and stable conditions. They’re hardy once established, but not ideal for brand-new tanks.

Tank Size

• Minimum: 10 gallons for a single snail
• Recommended: 20+ gallons for long-term stability or small groups

Water Parameters

These snails thrive in slightly alkaline, mineralized water similar to Neo or Sulawesi-style setups.

• Temperature: 74–82°F (ideal around 77–80°F)
• pH: 7.2–8.5
• GH: 6–12
• KH: 3–10
• TDS: ~150–250 ppm

Calcium and minerals are essential for shell health. Soft or acidic water can lead to shell erosion over time.

Setup Notes

• Soft sand or fine gravel is preferred
• Provide driftwood, smooth rocks, and leaf litter
• Gentle to moderate flow with good oxygenation
• Avoid aggressive or snail-nipping tankmates

Diet

While they graze naturally, Dwarf Black Rabbit Snails should be supplemented regularly.

They eat:

• Biofilm and soft algae
• Sinking algae wafers or pellets
• Shrimp food
• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, kale)
• Calcium sources like cuttlebone or mineral foods

Feed lightly and remove uneaten food to maintain water quality.

Breeding Information

Rabbit snails reproduce very slowly and are fascinating to observe.

• Livebearers that produce one fully formed baby at a time
• No larval stage and no population explosions
• Breeding occurs naturally in stable, mineral-rich tanks

This slow reproduction makes them ideal for aquarists who want a sustainable, low-maintenance snail.

Compatibility

Dwarf Black Rabbit Snails are peaceful and excellent tankmates.

Compatible with:

• Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp
• Amano shrimp
• Small, peaceful community fish
• Other non-aggressive snails

Avoid large predatory fish, crayfish, or species known to nip snail tentacles.

Why Choose Dwarf Black Rabbit Snails?

• Unique black coloration with iconic rabbit-like features
• Completely shrimp-safe and plant-safe
• Slow reproduction with live birth
• Ideal for planted and nano-style aquascapes
• Calm, engaging behavior with real personality

If you’re looking for a standout snail that adds character without chaos, the Dwarf Black Rabbit Snail is a beautiful and rewarding addition to a well-kept aquarium.