Description
These small snails are from Northern QLD, and are typically arboreal.
Caring for Leptopoma perlucidum, commonly referred to as the opalescent pendant snail, requires specific attention due to its unique characteristics as a terrestrial caenogastropod with gills and an operculum, unlike typical land snails. Below is a tailored care guide based on available information and general principles for similar species.
1. Habitat Setup
• Enclosure: Use a well-ventilated terrarium with a secure lid, as these snails are known to climb. A 5-10 gallon tank is sufficient for a small group (5-6 snails) to ensure genetic diversity for potential breeding.
• Substrate: Provide a moist, organic substrate like coco-peat or coconut coir, approximately 2-3 inches deep, to maintain high humidity and mimic their natural lowland forest or disturbed area habitats. Keep the substrate slightly damp but not waterlogged to prevent mold.
• Hides and Climbing Surfaces: Include bark, driftwood, or smooth rocks for climbing, as these snails are arboreal. Leaf litter or sphagnum moss can enhance the naturalistic environment and provide hiding spots.
• Temperature: Maintain a warm environment between 24-29°C, as they originate from tropical regions like FNQ, Australia. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
• Humidity: Keep humidity high, around 80-90%, to support their gill-based respiration. Mist the enclosure daily or use a humidifier, and monitor with a hygrometer.
2. Diet
• Primary Food: Leptopoma perlucidum is herbivorous. Offer a variety of fresh vegetables, with a preference for cucumber, which is noted as a favorite. Other options include leafy greens (e.g., lettuce, spinach), zucchini, and carrots. Avoid acidic or toxic foods like tomatoes or onions.
• Calcium Supplement: Provide a calcium source, such as cuttlebone or crushed coral, to support shell health. This is critical for maintaining their translucent, milky-white shells (the green color comes from their mantle).
• Feeding Method: Place food in a shallow dish to keep it clean and replace it when consumed or if it becomes moldy. They may also consume soft fungi, so small amounts of edible mushrooms can be offered occasionally.
• Frequency: Feed small amounts daily or every other day, removing uneaten food to prevent spoilage.
3. Water and Hydration
• Moisture: These snails rely on a moist environment due to their gills, which function in a lung-like mantle cavity. Mist the enclosure regularly to maintain humidity, but avoid standing water, as they are terrestrial, not aquatic.
• Water Dish: A shallow water dish is unnecessary, as they absorb moisture from the substrate and air. Ensure the substrate remains consistently moist.
4. Lighting
• Natural Cycle: Provide a 12-hour light/dark cycle to mimic their natural tropical environment. Low-intensity LED lights or natural daylight (avoiding direct sunlight) work well.
• UVB: Not strictly necessary, but a low-level UVB light may support overall health, as it does for some terrestrial gastropods.
Jasmine (verified owner) –
Emailed interest in the species a while back and before they were restocked on the website the sellers emailed me if I was still interested! Delighted they kept me in mind, I adore this species, they arrived very well packaged and they are enjoying their new enclosure :))