Hello, about a year ago I purchased 2 helix aspresa snails from here, since then they, and one of their very healthy children have passed. I am unsure why though. I feed them the right stuff, they have a proper enclosure setup, everything is safe for them to chew on, and their tank is large. They get misted multiple times a day too. I’m just wondering why a healthy snail, not even a year old, who was growing normally and was active just suddenly died? He’s in his shell, but his body looks dry, and he does have the typical covering over the opening of his shell that they normally have if they are too cold or too warm. I checked for mites but there’s no sign of any. Please help me, I don’t want anymore of my snails to die young. Thank you.
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Hello Hannah!
Thank you so much for reaching out — I can tell how much love and care you’ve given your snails, and I’m truly sorry to hear that you’ve lost them, especially one of their young. It’s always heartbreaking when a seemingly healthy snail passes without warning.
From what you described — a dry body inside the shell with a membrane over the opening — it sounds like the snail went into a state of dormancy (aestivation or hibernation), but sadly didn’t come back out. This can happen for a few reasons, and I’ll share the most common ones that might help identify what went wrong:
🔍 Possible Causes:
Sudden Temperature Drop or Fluctuation
Even brief exposure to cold (especially under 10°C/50°F) can trigger hibernation, and if the snail isn't in optimal health or conditions to recover, it may not survive. On the flip side, too much heat without airflow can also stress or dehydrate them.
Humidity Imbalance
Misting helps, but if the enclosure becomes too dry between mistings, or there’s too much airflow (like near an open window or fan), it can cause dehydration. Overly wet substrate, however, can lead to fungal growth and internal issues — so balance is key.
Calcium Deficiency or Internal Stress
Even if calcium is present, sometimes a snail’s ability to absorb it can be affected by gut health, mold exposure, or pesticide residue (from veggies, for example). Some young snails also grow fast but may have internal developmental issues we can’t see.
Invisible Contaminants
Tap water with chlorine or cleaning residues (even from safe-looking tank decor) can be harmful over time. Always using dechlorinated or spring water is safest.
💡 What You Can Do Going Forward:
Gently check that the substrate stays moist but not soggy (use the "squeeze test" — it should hold shape but not drip).
Make sure their temperature is stable between 65–75°F (18–24°C)
Feed a variety of fresh veggies, but rinse everything thoroughly and avoid those with high oxalates (like too much spinach).
Provide calcium in more than one form (cuttlefish bone + powder or calcium sticks).
Once a week, a lukewarm bath (~5 minutes) can help them stay hydrated and alert, especially in winter months.
If you’d like, you can send a few photos of the enclosure and your setup — I’m happy to take a closer look and give you some tailored suggestions.
You're clearly doing your best, and your snails are lucky to have someone so attentive. Let’s work together to keep the rest of your snail family thriving 🐌💚