Snails, like all living organisms, need a complete healthy diet, which saturates the animal with the necessary micro- and macroelements. One of the foods that can give the molluscum strength, energy and strength is spirulina.
Why is it useful and how much of such a product should be given to snails? Let’s deal with everything in order.
Spirulina. General information and meaning
In fact, this name, which is heard by many, is commercial. Arthrospira, a genus of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), to which the hero of our article belongs, is grown all over the world. It is available in the form of tablets, powder, animal feed.
But don’t think spirulina is just another fancy food. Even before the 14th century, it served as a food source for the Aztecs and other tribes. People collected seaweed in Lake Texcoco and formed what looked like cakes.
Also, this product grows in Chad (a state in Central Africa), namely in the numerous lakes of the country.
Spirulina has a unique property: it is not susceptible to genetic mutations and external hazards (radiation, pesticides and other chemicals). That is, algae always remain environmentally friendly.
Now about the benefits:
- 60% of the composition is protein (in dry spirulina);
- amino acids (in particular gamma and alpha linoleic acid);
- beta carotene;
- vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B9, B12, C, D, E;
- iron;
- calcium, chromium, copper, potassium, magnesium;
- zinc, selenium, etc.
In addition, there are components that increase the protective functions of the immune system. Agree, the composition is impressive.
Spirulina increases metabolic processes, removes harmful substances (toxins) from the body, strengthens cells. Algae is high in fiber, which contributes to the proper functioning of the intestines. The high protein content helps muscles grow and strengthens bone tissue (in the case of a snail, the shell).
Application and dosage for shellfish
High-quality feeding is important for the health and reproduction of snails no less than favorable external conditions (temperature, humidity). Spirulina is actively used to replenish the reserves of trace elements and vitamins, especially in the winter-spring period.
Also, according to the observation of scientists, algae facilitate the condition of gastropods during surges in atmospheric pressure.
Spirulina is given to the shellfish in powder up to three times a week. It is important to do this intermittently (1-2 days). Dosage: 0.2-0.5 grams per day per individual (depending on size).
The powder is added to plant food, sprinkled on top, or diluted in water and given as a drink.
The effectiveness of spirulina baths during mollusc disease has also been proven: 0.3 g is diluted in 100 ml of water and the diseased animal is lowered there.
Spirulina will help provide healthy and nutritious nutrition to your snails. But don’t forget about other mandatory containment conditions.