Overview
The Japanese Trapdoor Snail (Sinotaia quadrata) is a beginner freshwater species known for its brown-green, round shell coloration. Cold-tolerant. All surfaces.
Origin & Appearance
Origin: East Asia.
Colors: Brown-Green, Round shell.
Body Shape: Snail (coiled shell). Typical adult dimensions: 5.0 x 4.0 x 4.0.
Sexual Dimorphism: Minimal; difficult to sex.
Tank & Water Requirements
| Min Tank Size | 5 gallons |
| Temperature | 64–82°F |
| pH Range | 6.5–7.5 |
| Water Hardness (GH) | 5-15 |
| Bioload | low |
| Oxygen Demand | low |
| Plant Safe | yes |
| Aquarium Position | All surfaces |
Behavior & Activity
Slow surface grazer; seals shut with operculum when disturbed; steady methodical crawling over surfaces
Speed: 12/100Aggression: 1/10diurnalSchooling (3+)
Breeding
Easy; most breed readily (except nerites in freshwater)
Common Diseases
💊 Shell erosion in soft/acidic water
Expert Notes
Cold-tolerant; livebearer snail