Mystery snails are a popular type of freshwater aquarium snail known for their bright colors and “mystery” of not knowing exactly what color offspring they will produce. They come in many different color variations, but two of the most sought-after are the purple mystery snail and the magenta mystery snail. While quite similar in appearance, there are some notable differences between these two color morphs when it comes to their genetics, care requirements, breeding habits, and appearance.
Genetics
Purple and magenta mystery snails belong to the species Pomacea bridgesii and share the same general genetics. The different shell colors are caused by slight variations in pigmentation that results in different color expression.
The purple coloration is thought to be a result of a single recessive gene, while the magenta or reddish-pink color is likely caused by a separate single dominant gene. When two magenta mystery snails are bred together, they will always produce magenta offspring. But when a purple mystery snail is bred with a magenta, the offspring may exhibit either purple or magenta shells depending on whether the recessive or dominant color genes are expressed.
So in genetic terms, purple is the recessive trait and magenta is the dominant one. Two purple mysteries will always breed true purple offspring. But magenta crossed with purple may produce a mix of both colors.
Care Requirements
When it comes to caring for purple and magenta mystery snails, their requirements are essentially identical. Here are the main care guidelines to keep both color types healthy:
– Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons
– Water Temperature: 68-82°F (20-28°C)
– pH: 7.0-8.0
– Hardness: 8-12 KH
– Substrate: Sand or small gravel
– Decor: Driftwood, plants, rocks
– Filtration: Low flow filter
– Lid: Recommended as they can escape
– Diet: Algae wafers, blanched vegetables
Mystery snails are quite hardy and can thrive in a wide range of water parameters as long as extremes are avoided. Providing them with clean, warm, alkaline water is ideal, along with ample food sources. They are safe for community tanks with most peaceful fish species. Overall, purple and magenta mystery snails can be cared for identically.
Breeding Differences
When it comes to breeding purple and magenta mystery snails, there are some notable differences to be aware of:
– Magenta x Magenta will produce 100% magenta offspring
– Purple x Purple will produce 100% purple offspring
– Magenta x Purple may produce a mix of magenta and purple offspring
This is due to the different color genes being recessive (purple) or dominant (magenta). Two magenta mysteries will always yield magenta babies. But when breeding a purple with a magenta, the offspring may exhibit either parental color depending on which color genes they inherit.
Breeding to selectively strengthen color lines is something mystey snail enthusiasts spend much time perfecting. Breeding two high quality magentas will yield a stronger magenta color in the babies. Doing the same with two vivid purples enhances that color morph over generations.
Appearance Differences
While quite similar at a glance, there are some subtle differences between the appearances of purple and magenta mystery snails:
Purple
- Darker, richer purple shade
- May have blueish undertones
- Less transparency in the shell
- Older shells become more solid purple
- Purple color stays more consistent as they age
Magenta
- Pinkish, reddish tone
- May have orangey undertones
- Shells tend to be more translucent
- Color fades and becomes more white with age
- More variation in color over their lifetime
When viewed side-by-side, purple mysteries have a deeper, bluer violet shade while magentas exhibit a lighter pinkish tone. The magenta coloring also tends to become more faded and transparent as the snails age, while purples retain their richer tones longer. But there can be variation within each morph as well, as selective breeding continues to strengthen color expression over generations.
| Trait | Purple Mystery Snail | Magenta Mystery Snail |
|---|---|---|
| Genetics | Recessive gene | Dominant gene |
| Breeding Results | Always purple offspring | Always magenta offspring |
| Color Tone | Deep violet, blueish | Pinkish, orangey |
| Shell Transparency | Less transparent | More translucent |
| Color Retention with Age | Stays richly purple | Fades over time |
Conclusion
In summary, while purple and magenta mystery snails appear quite similar, they have some distinct differences when it comes to their genetics, breeding patterns, color tones, and aging characteristics. Both make unique and eye-catching additions to freshwater aquariums. With proper care, they can live 1-2 years and reach sizes over 2 inches in diameter. Their bright colors and peaceful nature make them a popular choice among aquarists of all experience levels. Understanding the differences between the purple and magenta color morphs allows breeders to selectively strengthen desired traits over generations. With their dazzling and constantly changing colors, mystery snails continue to live up to their name and fascinate aquarium enthusiasts around the world.