Chinese Cowrie
(Ovatipsa chinensis)

Descrição

Chinese Cowrie: An Engaging Nocturnal Cleaner for Your Marine Aquarium

Add intrigue and natural cleaning prowess to your saltwater tank with the captivating Chinese Cowrie. This striking snail offers unique beauty and beneficial scavenging habits.

Overview
The Chinese Cowrie (*Ovatipsa chinensis*) boasts a smooth, elegant shell, typically 2.5–5 cm, in shades of light brown or yellowish, adorned with distinct dorsal dots and a flat white base. Its most remarkable feature is the vibrant, bright red mantle, often extended to cover its shell, giving it a dynamic, living appearance. These fascinating marine gastropods are nocturnal, emerging from their hiding spots among rocks and crevices at night to graze.

Care Level
Moderate. While generally peaceful and hardy once established, their dietary habits require careful consideration. The Chinese Cowrie is **not considered reef safe**, as it may consume sponges and certain soft corals. They are compatible with most fish and other invertebrates that do not prey on snails.

Tank Essentials
Provide a well-established marine aquarium of at least 40 litres, featuring ample live rock for grazing and hiding. Maintain stable water parameters: a pH range of 8.1–8.4, a temperature of 24–27°C, and a specific gravity of 1.023–1.026. Consistent water quality is key for a healthy aquarium fish and invertebrate environment.

Diet
Primarily an herbivore and scavenger, the Chinese Cowrie naturally feeds on sponges and various types of algae. Supplement their diet with marine algae sheets, spirulina-based foods, and quality sinking invertebrate pellets if natural food sources are insufficient.

Why Buy From Us
When you buy Chinese Cowrie online from us, you receive healthy, responsibly sourced marine life. We prioritize humane shipping and proper acclimation guidance, ensuring your new additions thrive in your healthy aquarium. Discover the wonder of these unique snails with confidence.

• Scientific Name: *Ovatipsa chinensis*
• Common Name / Variant: Chinese Cowrie
• Maximum Size: 5 cm
• Origin: Indian and Central Pacific Oceans (Red Sea, East Africa, Australia, Indonesia, Philippines)
• pH Range: 8.1–8.4
• Temperature: 24–27°C
• Lifespan: [data unavailable]
• Swimming Zone: Bottom

Bring the beauty of the reef to your home – buy your Chinese Cowrie online today!