| Common Name | Dwarf African Land Snail |
| Scientific Name | Archachatina papyracea |
| Origin | West Africa |
| Adult Size | 5–8 cm shell length |
| Lifespan | 5–7 years |
| Activity | Nocturnal, terrestrial detritivore |
Behavior
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Calm, slow-moving, and easy to care for.
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Mostly nocturnal; becomes active in the evening and during humid conditions.
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Enjoys burrowing into substrate and hiding under objects.
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Harmless and peaceful; suitable for group housing.
Enclosure Requirements
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Tank Size: Minimum 20 liters for a small group
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Substrate: 8–12 cm of coconut fiber, soil, or organic compost for burrowing and egg laying
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Decor: Cork bark, leaves, moss, and small logs for hiding
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Humidity: 70–90%
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Temperature:
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Day: 22–26°C
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Night: 20–22°C
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Lighting: Low light; avoid direct sunlight
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Ventilation: Moderate airflow to prevent mold
Compatibility
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Social species; can be housed in groups with other similar-sized land snails.
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Avoid housing with predatory insects or animals that may harm snails.
Diet
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Herbivorous; feeds on fresh vegetables and fruits:
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Cucumber, lettuce, carrot, zucchini, apple
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Leafy greens and soft vegetables
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Provide calcium source such as cuttlebone or crushed eggshell for shell growth.
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Remove uneaten food daily to prevent mold.
Care Tips
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Maintain moist substrate but avoid waterlogging.
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Mist enclosure regularly to maintain humidity.
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Spot-clean regularly and remove spoiled food.
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Avoid handling with dry hands to prevent damaging the snail’s delicate skin and shell.
Breeding
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Hermaphroditic; both snails can lay eggs after mating.
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Eggs are laid in moist substrate and hatch after 2–4 weeks depending on temperature and humidity.
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Juveniles remain in the substrate initially and require soft foods and calcium.
Visual Quick Guide
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🏠 Enclosure: ≥20 L, deep moist substrate, hides and leaves
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🌡️ Temp: Day 22–26°C / Night 20–22°C
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💧 Humidity: 70–90%
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🍴 Diet: Vegetables, fruits, leafy greens, calcium source
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🕒 Activity: Nocturnal, burrowing detritivore
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⚠️ Stress: Maintain humidity, moist substrate, and gentle handling
Please note: We don't ship live animals. You can order online and choose click and collect, and we will hold it for you.














