Orange River Snail (Viviparus sp.)

Category: Freshwater Snails
Scientific Name: Viviparus sp.
Origin: West Papua Indonesia where this livebearing snail was recently identified within river systems
Lighting: Low to Moderate lighting recommended for natural behavior and best viewing
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel substrate preferred to support natural movement and resting behavior
Size: Juvenile to Adult

Parameters (Freshwater Snail Standard):
GH: 6–12
KH: 2–8
pH: 6.8–8.0

What to Expect with Appearance

Orange River Snails are notable for their warm orange to amber shell coloration paired with a rounded robust shell shape typical of Viviparus species. Shell tone can range from soft orange to deeper copper hues depending on age lighting and mineral availability. The shell surface is smooth and glossy when healthy giving them a polished appearance in the aquarium.

Their body is generally darker than the shell which enhances the contrast when the snail is active. As they mature the shell becomes thicker and more defined maintaining a compact rounded profile rather than a tall spiral.

General Care Behavior and Tank Conditions

Orange River Snails are peaceful slow moving grazers that feed on biofilm algae and detritus. Unlike many common aquarium snails they are livebearers, giving birth to one or two fully formed juveniles at a time rather than laying eggs. This makes them ideal for aquarists who want snails without rapid population explosions.

They thrive in mature stable aquariums with gentle flow and ample surfaces for grazing. Supplemental sinking foods algae wafers or vegetables can be offered if natural food sources are limited. They are shrimp safe and coexist well with peaceful fish and other invertebrates.

Bonus Tip

Because they are livebearing Orange River Snails reproduce slowly. Stable water parameters and consistent feeding help ensure healthy juveniles and strong shell development.

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