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Get rid of aquarium snails and green water without tearing down tank?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

I have a 26 gallon tank that is overrun with cone snails. We suck them out with every water change, but it's a losing battle. I've tried clown loaches to no avail. I think the snails are responsible for the green look to my water. Is that possible, and now can I remove them w/o tearing the entire tank down?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Kelvin Fujikawa

Aquatic expert

Published on July 5th, 2017

The cone-shaped snails you are referring to are most likely Malaysian Trumpet Snails. A sustained population of Malaysian Trumpet Snails is supported by an abundant food source usually in the form of organic debris or sludge in the substrate. The green water algae can also be attributed to excess nutrients in your aquarium.

If you haven't done so already, be in the practice of siphoning your substrate during every water change to remove trapped organic debris and prevent build up. While it maybe tempting to siphon your entire substrate bed, be sure to clean no more than 1/3 at a time to maintain a healthy population of beneficial bacteria that live in the substrate and make up a significant portion of your biological filter. Be sure to use a dechlorinator and a bacterial additive with each water change to ensure a healthy environment for your fish and biological filter.

The population of Malaysian Trumpet Snails will diminish naturally over time as you reduce their food source. In addition to enhancing your maintenance regimen, consider the introduction of Assassin Snails for additional natural control. http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=1075+3106&pcatid=3106

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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