snails in filter

[ssherwood]

I have a 60L freshwater tropical tank. I am unsure what type of filter I have so here is a discription. A pump descends into the tank drawing water into a chamber that sits above the tank which contains layers of sponge/matting. The water filters through the chamber and returns to the tank.

My problem: the filter is full of snails. Recently the ph levels have dropped radically and ammonia levels have risen dramatically. Could the snails be eating the beneficial bacteria in the filter media causing these problems?

Thanks,
Stuart

 

[Anemoneman]

The snails are not eating the bacteria. More then likely, they are dying and decomposing causing the ammonia spike which in turn is lowering your pH. Or they could be restricting water flow, inhibiting the efficiency of the filter. Try removing and cleaning or replacing the filter media.

Mark