Clea (gastropod)

Lore & Background

The genus Clea was originally described within the family Buccinidae, then moved to Nassariidae in 2016, and classified in the newly established subfamily Anentominae within Nassariidae in 2017. Species within Clea include Clea bangueyensis, Clea bockii, Clea funesta, Clea hidalgoi, and Clea nigricans (the type species). Several other species formerly placed in Clea are now treated in the separate genus Anentome, including the well-known Clea helena (now Anentome helena). The genus occurs in Asia and Africa.

Reader's Guide

Clea snails are notable as freshwater members of a predominantly marine family, Nassariidae. Their common name, assassin snails, derives from their carnivorous feeding strategy: they bury themselves in substrate and ambush other snails, often larger ones. This behavior, combined with their operculate shell, makes them distinctive among freshwater gastropods. Some species are part of the ornamental pet trade for freshwater aquaria, valued for their predatory habits. The genus has undergone taxonomic revision, moving from Buccinidae to Nassariidae and later to the subfamily Anentominae. Several species once considered Clea are now assigned to the separate genus Anentome, reflecting ongoing refinement of their classification. Their reproduction involves distinct male and female genders, with mating lasting 8–12 hours, though sexing individuals remains difficult as both sexes appear the same size and shape.

Did You Know?

• Clea snails are known as assassin snails because they eat other snails.
• They bury themselves and ambush their prey.
• Mating lasts 8–12 hours, and both sexes appear the same size and shape.
• Some Clea species are sold in the ornamental pet trade for freshwater aquaria.