A snail flipping upside down is a peculiar behavior that raises numerous concerns. While very few people can witness a snail flipping over, many aquarists often discover them lying upside down, particularly in the mornings. This raises questions about how snails end up in this inverted position and whether they may get stuck in this state.
Snails get stuck upside down, as it is not normal for them to flip on their backs. Most snails require help to return to an upright position due to the weight of their shells. Do not leave a snail in this vulnerable position. Check if the snail is alive, as many in this state may be dead or dying.
This article delves into the reasons behind and methods by which snails get stuck upside down. If you find a mystery snail upside down on bottom of tank, this article provides helpful tips for rescue, emphasizing the potential to save its life through timely intervention.
Why Do Snails Get Stuck Upside Down?
Tank snails tend to flip over and rest on their shells or backs. This behavior is prevalent among mystery snails but can also occur with other aquarium snails.
Flipping over is a natural behavior for the following snail species:
Smaller snail species usually have no trouble flipping over and returning to an upright position, whereas larger snails may encounter difficulties.
A nerite snail upside down is typically not an issue if the snail can easily return to an upright position. However, problems arise when snails flip upside down and become trapped in this position.
There are three primary reasons why a snail may get stuck upside down.
Lack of Tact
Flipping over and returning upright requires a certain level of acrobatics for snails. While it may come naturally to some snails, most learn this behavior through trial and error, perfecting it over time.
Interestingly, some snails become so skilled at flipping that they can even feed on organic detritus while in this upside-down position, making it a captivating sight to behold.
Nevertheless, due to the weight of their shells, many snails simply get stuck upside down due to a lack of finesse or misguided attempts at floating.
Sickness or Injury
Snails often meet an unfortunate fate when they find themselves stuck in an awkward upside-down position. Sick snails lack energy and cannot muster the strength to right themselves.
Similarly, snails that have experienced accidental falls resulting in injuries will remain in this position, resigned to their fate and awaiting their demise.
Shell Damage
The shell serves as a crucial refuge for snails, providing them with protection when faced with threats.
However, shell damage can pose significant challenges for these creatures. Cracks in the shell can allow water to seep in, causing a snail to flip onto its back.
Given that most shells have a symmetrical shape and tend to slant either to the left or right, it becomes nearly impossible for such a snail to independently return to an upright position.
Related Reading: The Story of Jeremy, the Left-Coiled Snail
Sleep
Indeed, snails can spend extended periods in an upside-down position while they sleep. While it is natural for snails to sleep, the following factors can cause them to sleep upside down:
- Poor water conditions
- Sickness
- Malnutrition
- Stress
In normal circumstances, snails retract into their shells and sleep in an upright position. If a snail remains asleep for over 24 hours, regardless of its position, it is cause for concern as it may be dead or dying.
Related Reading: How Long Do Snails Sleep?
Why Do Snails Flip Over?
Accidents
Snails can end up in an upside-down position due to accidents. While climbing, some snails may unintentionally fall and find themselves in this inverted state.
Even with their impressive grip, snails can still experience slips and climbing mishaps, especially as they age. Elderly snails may encounter muscle deterioration or coordination issues, making falls from tank walls, plants, or lids common, resulting in them landing upside down.
Poor Dieting
Snails may also flip over when underfed, as their weakness hinders their ability to find sufficient food. In their search for nourishment, these snails may climb walls in a desperate attempt to escape, but their fragility often leads to falls.
Providing a supplemental diet, such as algae wafers and bottom feeder pellets, ensures that your snails are well-nourished and less inclined to scavenge for food.
The API Algae Eater Algae Wafer is an excellent choice for supplemental snail food, formulated with spirulina algae, pea protein, and essential micronutrients to promote optimal growth.
Additionally, consider adding the following blanched vegetables to further supplement your snail’s diet:
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Kale
Attacks by Fish
Snails may flip over in their attempts to evade predators like:
- Betta fish
- Goldfish
- Angelfish
- Loaches
Younger snails can be swallowed by these predators, making their escapes far from seamless. As a result, a snail may end up landing upside down and sustaining injuries.
Unfavorable Water Conditions
Stress caused by sudden changes in water temperature, pH levels, acidity, and lighting can also contribute to snails flipping over. In many cases, snails accidentally end up upside down as they attempt to escape from a toxic tank environment.
Maintaining optimal tank parameters specific to each snail species is crucial. I recommend using the SJ WAVE Freshwater Aquarium Test Kit to monitor water parameters. This convenient test kit lets you track 7 key tank parameters accurately and rapidly.
By maintaining consistent water conditions, you can prevent your snails from experiencing flips and ensure their well-being.
How To Help Snails Stuck Upside Down?
Analyze the Situation
Before taking any action, assess the cause of the flip over. It is essential to determine if the snail is alive and healthy. If the shell emits an odor, the snail is likely deceased.
Dispose of dead snails to prevent ammonia spikes in the tank. If the snail appears stressed or agitated, it requires assistance.
Be Gentle
Gently grasp the snail by its shell and carefully flip it back to an upright position, using your fingers or a tray to avoid contact with its body. Place the snail in a suitable position within the tank and allow it to relax.
Monitor Behavior
Monitor the snail’s behavior to ensure it resumes normal activities and does not immediately flip over again, which could indicate underlying health issues.
If the snail does not display normal behavior or continues to flip over, it is recommended to promptly seek assistance from an aquatic veterinarian.
Closing Remarks
Snails may experience flipping over at some point. The following factors can contribute to this:
- Poor water parameters
- Accidents
- Predation
- Inadequate diet
Typically, snails will not remain upside down for extended periods, but if they do, they require assistance to return upright. Prolonged upside-down positioning can lead to starvation or stress-induced death.
When helping snails, handle them gently without touching their bodies, and afterward, monitor their behavior to ensure their well-being. Maintaining a healthy tank environment reduces the risk of snails flipping over to their demise.
