Chestnut Cowrie

Cowrie's are found in warm tropical and subtropical waters around the world. They inhabit coral reefs, rocky, sandy, and muddy areas often in shallow coastal regions although some species are found at greater depths. In their natural habitats, cowries are primarily herbivores, feeding on algae and other small marine invertebrates. They use their specialized radula (a feeding organ with tiny teeth) to scrape algae from surfaces. Cowrie's have various predators, including certain fish species and crustaceans. In the aquarium trade, cowrie shells are sometimes used for decorative purposes in reef aquariums or as collectors' items. The underside of a cowrie shell features a narrow opening called the aperture. This opening is usually protected by a specialized operculum, a hardened structure that the cowrie can withdraw into for protection.

Cypraea Snails may also be known as Cowrie or Cowry Shells. Cowrie Snails are commonly collected for the aquarium trade. Cowrie shells are highly variable in color and pattern, depending on the species. They can be glossy and polished, with colors ranging from creamy white to various shades of brown, orange, and even darker colors. Some Cowrie species may have intricate patterns or spots on their shells. These snails can grow to a little over 4".

Water conditions: Salinity 1.023 - 1.025 Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Hardness 8 - 12 dKH