Collection of snails (1 Viewer)

[markus]

I am in Port Aransas and I am finding lots of trumpet snails and olive snails on or near the beach. I have a few questions. I wondered if they are legal to collect, if they would be good in a reef aquarium (they look to be excellent detritus eaters and sand sifters) and if you can collect them how do you aclimate them to be put into a reef aquarium.
Thanks for any input.
Markus

 

[AquaNerd]

they are legal to collect as long as you have a fishing license. you cannot sell or trade them for anything in return, but you can give them away.

as for reef safe...i would really need to see a few pictures of what you have, as improper id can really change things.

if you keep them, just acclimate like other livestock...drip method for a couple hours is the best.

 

[crvz]

olive snails are predatory that feast on other snails. not sure what trumpet snails are.

 

[markus]

I did not collect or get any pictures while I was down there but the snails littered the beach as much as the little periwinkle clams. They would be pushed on the shore and then bury themselves quickly. The shells are very narrow and long and resemble these Malaysian trumpet snails but in saltwater.

The official word from the TX Parks and Wildlife was:

In response to your inquiry concerning the collection of snails off the Port Aransas coast, please be advised that it is unlawful for any person to take, kill or possess more than 15 univalve snails (all species), to include no more than two of each of the following species: lightening whelk, horse conch, Florida fighting conch, pear whelk, banded tulip, and Florida rocksnail. Additionally, please be advised that the collection of any Assiminea pecos is prohibited due to its endangered status, and a valid Texas fishing license is required.