One snail out of 5 a lot smaller. Why is this? Pics attached

[karia1426]

I've had my snails for months now. I've noticed 4 of them are way bigger than one. I started noticing more recently the size difference. It's like the 4 are getting bigger and my one (I call her Copa) is not. So I've been keeping an eye on her and she's not as active nor do I see her eating like she use to. So today I decided to separate her. She is eating like crazy right now. I sprinkled some ground limestone on top of her lettuce as well. My question is, why is she eating so well being separated from the others? Are the big ones taking over? I have a decent size tank with plenty of food. Enough for everyone. Even when the big guys are done eating she won't come and get some. Any tips on what's going on? Do I need to separate her every now and again so she can eat?


imgur.com/WoScTjR


imgur.com/iJe76fU

[etana]

It's likely genetic, some variety in size and even runts are common in snails. I'm not sure why she wouldn't eat food touched by the others though. Anyhow, if she eats much better when separated for eating, then by all means take her out to eat now and then. Please don't add calcium to snail food though - it has to be on a separate dish so they can decide for themselves how much they eat it at a time. Force feeding it among food can mess with their health.

[karia1426]

I never thought to put the calcium on a separate dish. Definitely going to do that. And the fact some snails are runts makes me feel better about her. Thank you!