Snails/Crawfish/Shrimp???

[JayK1320]

So I am looking through here and see a pretty good amount of people with snails, or crawfish or shrimp etc. I am wondering whats the purpose of these? Do they really help keep the tank that clean? Are they more work to take care of then they do good?

I would be interested in keeping something, but I also see that some of these things can go after your fish and plecos?

I have got a 2" Jewel and a 2" Pleco in my 55g, I plan to add more fish to the tank eventually, but thought maybe some of these invertebrates would be interesting too. Anyone have suggestions on something easy to keep that wont ruin/take over my tank?

 

[Lizardking]

Well, I keep snails for the same reason I keep fish. I it lives in water I keep it.
I dont recommend keeping snails with cichlids esp apple snails. The fish would probably bit the snails siphon or antennas.

 

[Land Shark]

Well, I keep snails for the same reason I keep fish. I it lives in water I keep it.

I keep Trumpet Snail with my Red Claw Shrimp in my planted 20gal and former 40gal tanks these snails dig through the gravel to find food as well as hide. Also these snails can seal their shells completely for protection.

 

[JayK1320]

So would it not be suggested trying to keep them with cichlids? What about crawfish or shrimp?

 

[cornbread_5]

i have keep snails and crawfish with cichlids , your jewels will be fine a crawfish and they keep the tank clean . just make sure you have a cave for them and look out when they molt, thats when they are the most vulenerable. Get a decent size crayfish

 

[Fish tamer returns]

it would be a good idea jus put a alot of plants for the shirmp