Golden Tropical Freshwater Mussel Pilsbryoconcha Exilis 5cm

The Golden Tropical Freshwater Mussel is a striking bivalve known for its smooth, elongated shell with a warm golden-bronze sheen. It is a natural filter feeder that helps polish aquarium water by removing microscopic particles. Best suited for mature aquariums with stable parameters and plenty of suspended micro-food.

Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and surrounding regions. Found in slow-moving rivers, ponds, and floodplains with soft, silty substrates.

A pure filter feeder that consumes:

• Suspended microorganisms
• Phytoplankton
• Infusoria and microfauna
• Fine detritus

Because aquariums often lack enough natural micro-food, supplemental feeding may be required using products such as liquid phytoplankton, green water, or micro-sized planktonic foods. Avoid overfeeding—poor water quality is the main risk.

Peaceful but requires gentle companions, such as:

• Small tetras and rasboras
• Peaceful gouramis
• Corydoras species
• Shrimp

Avoid:

• Loaches
• Puffers
• Crabs
• Large cichlids
  All of these may nip, pick at, or disturb the mussel.

None. The species is completely passive.

Intermediate to advanced. Mussels require stable, mature tanks with a steady food supply and excellent water quality. Improper care can lead to starvation in clean or newly established aquariums.

• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH: 6.8–7.8
• Hardness: 4–15 dGH
• Notes:
  • Needs soft to medium substrate to safely burrow.
  • Very sensitive to ammonia and nitrite—requires pristine water.
  • Should not be placed in tanks with strong flow.

The Golden Tropical Freshwater Mussel (Pilsbryoconcha exilis) is an eye-catching and functional filter feeder that thrives in stable, mature aquariums with peaceful tank mates and a consistent supply of micro-food.