magnetic clip

Question
Hi Nicole. Since I last wrote you, I now have two mystery snails, and they are cleaning the algae in the goldfish tank wonderfully well! They are a joy to watch. I will add a heater, when it starts to get cool in order to keep it at least 70 degrees, like you said they need. My question is, what is a magnetic clip and how does it work?   Debbie

Answer
Hi there Debbie,

I'm sorry about that, I should have been more specific.

The magnetic clip I was referring to was just a regular old chip clip, the kind you would get from the grocery store and then stick on your fridge. I used the same clip for over a year and just recently replaced it - I believe the metal hinge inside of it started to rust and become difficult to pry open. All you do is just slice a vegetable thinly, then clip the end of it with a magnetic clip. The clip will be heavier than the vegetable and it will sink to the bottom.  

When your snail is done getting its fill of vegetables (your goldfish will more than likely nibble on this too) you can remove the remainder of the vegetable and the clip from the bottom of the tank. I usually remove the vegetable within 36 hours. Here's an article that will suggest a few veggies...
http://www.planetcatfish.com/shanesworld/shanesworld.php?article_id=294

It's about feeding plecos, but snails will be happy to eat the same foods - your goldfish might take interest, too.

I hope that helps, take care!
Nicole