Fighting Conch (Strombus.)

Species Name : Strombus spp.

Care Level : Easy

Color : Grey, Cream, Orange

Temperament : Peaceful

Diet : Detritus, Omnivore

Reef Compatible : Yes

Water Conditions : 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025

Max. Size : 4"

Origin : Western Atlantic Ocean

Family : Strombidae

In the aquarium hobby, most species under the Strombus are called Fighting Conch no matter their exact classification. The fighting term is simply because the males sometimes battle each other.

Strombus spp. has a robust, somewhat heavy and solid shell, with a characteristic stromboid notch. The shell color varies from salmon-pink, grey or cream to light or strong orange, and the interior of the aperture is usually white. They reach a size of 3-4 inches long, and 2 inches high and can eat a large amount of algae. The Fighting Conch is a very popular addition to the marine aquarium for keeping substrates clean and overturned. 

Fighting Conch require an aquarium of at least 20 gallons; a longer tank is preferred over a tall one to provide more footprint. 

The beneficial Fighting Conch is not as aggressive as its name implies. Though a male Fighting Conch can be territorial towards other males of its own kind, the Fighting Conch is peaceful towards other tankmates. The Fighting Conch is a suitable addition to any home reef aquarium, where it will use its excellent sand sifting abilities to clean and aerate the substrate.

Like other invertebrates, the Fighting Conch is sensitive to high levels of nitrate and will not tolerate copper-based medications.

Classified as an omnivore, the Fighting Conch will consume detritus from your aquarium substrate. Keep in mind that the Fighting Conch has a voracious appetite; as such, supplemental feeding is required in smaller systems and recommended in even the largest aquarium setups. Supply pieces of fresh fish and dried seaweed, as well as high quality frozen foods to supplement the diet of the Fighting Conch.