Species Name: Astraea americanum

Authority: Gmelin, 1791

Common Name: American Turbo

Range: Western Atlantic Ocean: North Carolina to the Caribbean

Natural Environment: Inhabits grass beds, mid-intertidal zones and rocks on upper reef areas

General Husbandry: Has a temperature range of 68 to 79°F (20 - 26°C). This is a smaller than the turban species and they are excellent algae grazers, especially brown diatom algae. Because of their small size, about 1 inch (2.5 cm), they are less apt to knock things over. Yet, more is needed, with one per three gallons my recommendation. Much more hardy then the turban/turbo species. Similar in appearance to other Astraea species.