Description
Reef Rundown – Dog Ear Conch (Laevistrombus canarium)
Why They're Cool:
Dog Ear Conchs get their name from the flared outer edge of their shell, which resembles a dog’s ear. Like other conchs, they move with a distinctive “hopping” motion, pushing themselves forward using their claw-like operculum.
Primary Use:
Sandbed cleaning. They graze microalgae from the sand surface while their movement helps gently aerate the upper layer of the substrate.
Diet:
Feeds primarily on film algae, diatoms, and biofilm growing across the sand surface. While grazing, they may also consume small amounts of detritus and leftover food.
Where You'll See Them:
Almost always on the sandbed, moving across open substrate while grazing. They rarely climb rockwork or aquarium glass.
Macroalgae Safe:
Yes. Dog Ear Conchs feed on microalgae films and do not consume macroalgae.
Ease of Care:
Easy in established aquariums with sufficient sandbed grazing. Their hopping movement allows them to right themselves if flipped.
Tank Size:
Best suited for aquariums with open sand areas. Larger tanks with established sandbeds provide the most consistent natural grazing.
Native Range:
Indo-Pacific seagrass beds and sandy lagoon environments.
