Tiger cowrie
Cypraea tigris
InvertebratesSaltwater
- Care level
- Moderate
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Reef safe
- With caution
- Recommended tank
- 200 L
- Maximum size
- 10 cm
- Temperature
- 24–27 °C
- pH
- 8–8.4
- Diet
- Omnivore
Care at a glance
The tiger cowrie has a glossy, egg-shaped shell with dark spots, which stays smooth because the snail wraps its mantle over it. Disturb it and that mantle withdraws, revealing the familiar polished cowrie.
It is active at night and grazes algae and film, but over the years it grows large and may also go for soft corals and sponges. Its size also means it topples loose coral frags, so in a carefully aquascaped reef tank it is not without risk.
Good to know
Related species
Keep Tiger cowrie in the BlubHub app
Add this species to your inhabitants, with count and photos, and see the care info next to your own water values, target bands and reminders. Free, no account, everything on your own device.
Values are mainstream hobbyist guidance, not gospel — always watch what your own animals need.