Pyramid Turbo - Turbo tectum

Pyramid Turbo (Turbo tectum)

The Pyramid Turbo is a useful and peaceful marine grazing snail recognised for its tall, conical shell and steady algae-feeding behaviour. It spends much of its time grazing film algae and biofilm from live rock, aquarium glass and other hard surfaces. Hardy once established and generally reef safe, it makes a practical addition to mature marine clean-up crews where stable water chemistry and sufficient natural grazing are available.

Common Name:
Pyramid Turbo, Turbo Snail, Pyramid Snail

Scientific Name (Latin):
Turbo tectum

Maximum Size:
Approximately 5–6 cm

Water Type:
Marine

Origin / Natural Habitat:
The Pyramid Turbo is associated with tropical western Atlantic and Caribbean marine environments, particularly shallow rocky and reef habitats.

It naturally grazes algae and biofilm from exposed rock and other hard surfaces, retreating into crevices and sheltered areas when required.

Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–26°C
pH Range: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024–1.026
Nitrate: Low and stable
Copper: Must be avoided

Temperament:
Peaceful

Pyramid Turbo Snails are peaceful marine grazers and are generally compatible with suitable reef fish, corals and other clean-up crew inhabitants.

They do not display territorial or predatory behaviour and can be kept singly or in groups where sufficient grazing material is available.

Diet:
Algae Grazer / Herbivore

The Pyramid Turbo feeds primarily on naturally occurring algae and biofilm.

It is useful for grazing film algae and other nuisance growth from live rock and aquarium glass. In very clean systems, supplementary foods such as dried nori, algae wafers and other suitable marine herbivore preparations can be offered.

Minimum Tank Size:
Approximately 60 litres

A mature aquarium with established live rock and adequate grazing surfaces is more important than aquarium volume alone.

Behaviour & Activity:
The Pyramid Turbo spends much of its time moving steadily across live rock, aquarium glass and other hard surfaces while grazing.

Its strong muscular foot allows it to maintain a secure grip on rockwork while feeding.

Individuals that fall upside down onto open substrate may occasionally struggle to right themselves, so they should be checked periodically and gently assisted if necessary.

Reef Safe:
Reef Safe

The Pyramid Turbo is generally considered reef safe and does not normally damage healthy coral tissue.

Its primary role in the aquarium is grazing nuisance algae and biofilm, making it a useful addition to established reef systems.

Loose coral frags should still be secured because larger grazing snails can occasionally dislodge lightweight pieces while moving across rockwork.

Special Requirements or Care Notes:
Provide a mature marine aquarium containing established live rock and natural algae growth.

Stable salinity and water chemistry are important, and careful acclimation is recommended when introducing marine snails.

Copper-based medications must never be used in an aquarium containing this species.

Monitor natural food availability once nuisance algae has been reduced. Supplementary algae-based foods may become necessary in very clean aquariums.

Check individuals that fall onto their backs and assist them if they are unable to right themselves.

Avoid housing Pyramid Turbo Snails with known mollusc predators such as many triggerfish, puffers and large predatory wrasses.

Suitable for:
Beginner

Availability:
Regularly available

All images are a visual representation of the invert you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Please note that Mother Nature is a wonderful thing, and variation in patterns and colours will occur — that is part of the unique beauty of these animals.