This page is intended to be a simple, practical guide to caring for African snails. For more specific information on certain species, I recommend contacting a breeder of those species, as this page covers the topic in general terms.
The information provided here comes from reliable sources as well as my own hands-on experience breeding these animals, which I began in 2022. As of today, I have stopped breeding gastropods.
The general care guidelines are few and simple but apply to all species of snails. You’ll still need to do thorough research on the specific species you plan to keep at home, but basically, snails need:
Housing: Glass is strongly discouraged because it retains neither heat nor humidity. The best option is appropriately sized plastic containers equipped with ventilation.
Substrate: It is impossible to provide a sterile environment for these animals. The substrate should be organic potting soil rich in humic acids.
Humidity: Each species has its own preferences, but as a general rule, the habitat must always remain humid (but NOT wet). You’ll need to mist both the soil and the walls so the snail can drink; the frequency and intensity of misting are directly proportional to the amount of ventilation in the enclosure.
Temperature: With some exceptions, exotic snails live within a temperature range of 22°C to 28°C. Temperatures above or below this range risk causing the snail to go into dormancy or estivation and, in extreme cases, to become stressed and die.
Calcium: This is by far the most important supplement for a snail, as it uses calcium to form its shell.
Food: Snails feed on detritus and plants but also need a source of protein.
Reproduction: Since they are pests, it is very easy to breed them; what is not easy is raising the newborns properly, selecting the best ones, and culling those that are deformed, too small, or too weak.