The Ghost Piano Snail, scientifically known as Filopaludina martensi, is a large, striking freshwater snail native to slow-moving rivers, lakes, and wetlands throughout Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. This species is appreciated in the aquarium hobby for its beautiful pale, ivory-colored shell, gentle nature, and impressive size. Adult Ghost Piano Snails can reach up to 2.5 inches (6 to 6.5 cm) in shell height. Their shell is round, smooth, and creamy white to pale beige, often with a glossy appearance and several prominent whorls. The body is pale gray to brown, with two long tentacles and an operculum (trapdoor) used to seal the opening when threatened. A tank of at least 10 gallons is suitable for one or two individuals. Ghost Piano Snails do best in aquariums with a soft sand or fine gravel substrate, stable décor such as rocks and driftwood, and moderate to gentle water flow. Live plants can be included, as this species is generally plant-safe and will not damage healthy leaves. Ensure the tank is well-covered, as these snails may occasionally explore above the waterline. Water parameters should include a temperature of 70 to 78°F (21 to 26°C), a pH between 7.0 and 8.0, and moderate to high hardness. Good water quality, plenty of dissolved calcium, and regular partial water changes are important for strong shell growth and overall health. Avoid copper-based medications, which are highly toxic to snails. Feeding Filopaludina martensi is straightforward, as they are omnivorous detritivores. They will consume soft algae, biofilm, decaying plant matter, leftover fish food, and will also accept algae wafers, blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini, and calcium-rich foods for shell health. Ghost Piano Snails are peaceful and make excellent tankmates for other non-aggressive species, including small fish, shrimp, and other snails. Avoid keeping them with snail-eating fish or very large, aggressive species. Breeding Filopaludina martensi in captivity is rare. This species is livebearing—females give birth to fully formed juvenile snails rather than laying eggs, but successful reproduction usually requires specific conditions not easily replicated in the aquarium. Filopaludina martensi (Ghost Piano Snail) is a hardy, peaceful species that adds unique beauty and practical algae control to freshwater aquariums.
