Detailed Explanation of Key Technical Points for Winter Management of Golden Apple Snails

Winter management of golden apple snails is very important, as it affects the breeding benefits of golden apple snails. So how should golden apple snails be managed in winter? Let us introduce it below.

From mid-August to mid-October, they prepare for hibernation; in the early period their appetite gradually increases, storing nutrients to prepare for hibernation. Before entering hibernation, their food intake decreases, and it is suitable to feed them 2 times per week. When the water temperature drops to about 10C, golden apple snails begin hibernation. The overwintering methods for winter management of golden apple snails include:

(1) Dry method overwintering: When the water temperature drops to about 12C, take the snails out, rinse them with clean water, and place them indoors to dry.

During the drying process, the snails excrete feces and will no longer come out to move unless they encounter water. After 3-5 days, remove broken-shell snails and dead snails, then put them into cardboard boxes. When boxing, place a layer of snails, then a layer of paper scraps or shavings, then tie them up and place them in a ventilated and dry place at 6-15 degrees to overwinter. During overwintering, they must absolutely not be subjected to freezing damage. When the water temperature rises above 15C the following year, put the snails back into the water, and the snails will begin to move and forage.

(2) Film-covered overwintering: In winter, when the water temperature drops below 12 degrees, plastic film should be used to cover the surface of the pond.

On clear days with sufficient sunlight, release shallow pond water (10-15 cm) to help raise the temperature; at night, deepen the water level to more than 50 cm to help keep it warm. Generally change the water once every 3-4 days to maintain an appropriate oxygen content. At the same time, prevent natural enemies such as rats and cats from harming the golden apple snails. After hibernation, when they begin to wake up, start applying organic fertilizer 1 week before. During the overwintering period, if the water temperature is mostly above 15°C, feed an appropriate amount of feed. If the water temperature is often above 20C, strengthen water quality management and feeding management in the winter management of golden apple snails.