Apple Snail - Shell Problem

[zuulan]

My Apple snail has a problem on his shell at the top of the spiral. You can see his flesh underneath it, so I'm not even sure the shell is still there. See the photo below, sorry about the size, you have to scroll right to see it.

How can I do about it? I've had him over 2 years and he was already fully grown when I got him. Could he be coming to the end of his life?

 

[zuulan]

Bump.

Any advice from anyone?

Has anyone experienced this before or know how long Apple Snails live?

 

[Wigster]

Probably best to post your water stats, KH/hardness, ph etc.

Possibly a lack of calcium?

 

[zuulan]

How would I add calcium?

 

[Wigster]

Before adding calcium you need to work out if it's definitely the cause, and not because of acidic water. So do a pH test if possible.

And then if it does seem to be a calcium deficiency:
Good advice here: http/www.applesnail.net/content/various/snail_disease.php

To aid calcium:
"Better than repairing the shell is to avoid problems by keeping the calcium concentration of the water high enough to inhibit and prevent shell dissolving.
A higher calcium concentration can be easily achieved by adding calcium carbonate to the water. Many aquarium and pond shops sell special preparation to increase the calcium concentration. However, crushed or powdered marble, seashells, limestone and eggs shells are useful alternatives.
Before you starts to add calcium supplements, make sure that the other inhabitants (fish) of the tanks/pond tolerate calcium rich (hard) water and remember: 'if it ain't broken, don' fix it'. "
Source - http/www.applesnail.net/content/faq.php

 

[zuulan]

Many thanks Wigster

 

[Iiriva]

What are your water stats?


pH: 6.5- 8, 7 or more is better
gH: 5-20, over 8 is better.
Temp: 18-28'c (20-23 is the best) they die younger if the water is warmer.

Usually apple snails live around 2 years, though. Depending on the species they are 1 to 4 years, but the most common ones are around 2.

Edit: old age is one thing for sure, and I'm a bit worried about the fact that it seems to have some kind of algae growth on it's shell!

 

[zuulan]

old age is one thing for sure, and I'm a bit worried about the fact that it seems to have some kind of algae growth on it's shell!

Is algae on them normal?

I've found some old shells from garden snails. If I wash them and add them to the tank will this help with the calcium problem?