Fighting Conch

Strombus alatus

Strombus alatus is commonly referred to as a fighting conch in the marine aquarium industry.  Like other conchs, fighting conchs spend most of their time in the sand bed feeding on detritus and algae that accumulates beneath the substrate.  They get their name because males tend to be territorial and will fight during mating to prove their dominance. Their common name can be misleading as they are peaceful inhabitants in the reef or fish only aquarium. 

Physical Description– These snails have well developed eyes that can be seen as they scour the substrate for food. Their shells tend to vary from yellow to brown to grey with several points or spikes as the shell spirals toward the back.  Reaching 4 inches in length these snails are larger than most other aquarium cleanup crew members so one conch per 30 gallons is recommended.  While not completely necessary as they will do okay in bare bottom tanks, a sand bed is recommended for them to bury and search for food. 

Temperament– This conch will spend much of its time in the sand bed devouring detritus and algae and is safe for both reef and fish only aquariums.  It will not disturb other fish, inverts, or corals but may be preyed on by puffers and triggers.  Add one per 30 gallons to ensure no territorial issues arise.  

Size– Growing to a maximum of 4 inches it is a larger snail found in the marine aquarium industry. 

Diet– Fighting Conch feed on detritus and algae that accumulates beneath the substrate.

Distribution– Found in and along the Atlantic Ocean ranging from North Carolina to Florida, throughout the Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean amongst sea grass beds.