Scutus unguis - Shield Limpet

Characteristics:

• Species: Scutus unguis

• Group: Sea snail (Gastropoda)

• Color: Dark brown to black, often with a lighter edge; mantle partially or completely covers the flat, reduced shell

• Size: Up to approx. 8–12 cm, depending on age and keeping conditions

• Lifestyle: Crepuscular and nocturnal

• Diet: Grazer (algae, biofilm)

• Light requirement: No special requirements

• Flow: Low to moderate

Care instructions:
Scutus unguis is a very effective algae eater and is particularly suitable for larger marine aquariums with sufficient growth. Due to its size and strength, the aquarium should be set up stably, as loose decorations or small frags can be moved. Additional feeding with algae sheets (e.g. Nori) or vegetable frozen food is recommended if algae growth is low.

Special features:

• Very powerful algae and biofilm eater

• Unusual appearance due to the shell covered by the mantle

• Robust and long-lived with stable water parameters

• Ideal for larger reef and fish aquariums

• Mostly nocturnal – often hidden during the day