The Black Devil Snail (Faunus ater) makes an immediate impression. Its long, conical shell tapers to a sharp point and comes dressed in deep brown to near-black tones — a stark, sculptural contrast against planted aquascapes and natural hardscape. Originally from Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific, this species is as easygoing as it looks dramatic, making it a natural fit alongside Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp in calm, well-maintained tanks.

6.8–8.0 pH Range

GH 6–12 General Hardness

KH 2–8 Carbonate Hardness

68–78°F Temperature

What to Expect

Appearance & Behavior Over Time

Bold conical silhouette — the long, tapered shell with a sharp point gives Black Devil Snails one of the most distinctive profiles of any freshwater snail. Deep, near-black coloration — shell tones range from rich dark brown to almost pure black, with subtle variation in sheen and tone between individuals. Juveniles lighten with age — younger snails may appear slightly lighter, with shells deepening in color as they mature and the shell thickens. New growth contrast is natural — minor differences between older shell sections and fresh new growth are a normal sign of healthy, active development. Slow, deliberate movement — a measured grazer that works its way steadily across rocks, driftwood, and substrate, cleaning surfaces as it goes.

How to Set It Up

Getting Started

1 Start with a cycled, established tank — Black Devil Snails do best where biofilm and organic matter have had time to accumulate on hardscape and substrate surfaces.

2 Use sand or fine gravel as substrate, and furnish the tank with smooth rocks, driftwood, or botanicals to provide plenty of grazing and resting surfaces.

3 Maintain stable water parameters — keep pH between 6.8–8.0, GH 6–12, and KH 2–8. Consistent mineral levels are essential for healthy long-term shell condition.

4 Supplement when needed — if natural food sources run thin, offer algae wafers or blanched vegetables to ensure your snails stay nourished and active.

💡 Bonus Tip

Providing plenty of hard surfaces such as rocks or driftwood encourages natural grazing behavior and helps keep Black Devil Snails active and visible throughout the aquarium.

🌿

Complete the setup with live plants

Plants provide essential hiding spots and enhance the natural look of your tank, creating a healthier, more enriching environment for your shrimp. Browse our Aquatic Plants collection.

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