There are several different forms of Achatina immaculata, one that was fairly common just a few years ago, but has since become much more difficult to find for sale is Achatina immaculata var. “two tone.”

Named because of its two tone brown/red and cream shell this form usually gets to around 10cm in captivity, though can sometimes reach over 15cm shell length.  This form was originally known as Achatina dimidiata, a species that doesnt exist, this is because of a similar species that does actually exist, Archachatina dimidiata, which is also found in South Africa.  Like this form, it has a two-toned shell, the major difference being that is is an Archachatina species, it lays large eggs, has a blunt apex, and a raised "v" on its tail, while Achatina immaculata var. "two tone" is clearly an Achatina species.  Archachatina dimidiata arent currently kept in captivity.

Many snails of this form are stunted though, only getting to around 2-3cm and so suffer health problems, the reasons for these health problems are unknown, incorrect housing conditions has been suggested, but is unlikely as some keepers mention success in keeping them in identical conditions to that of stunted snails, inbreeding is a possibility, especially with only a small number of these snails available a few years ago, from which resulted in many of these snails offered over the internet, many in online auctions, and by suppliers of invertebrates online as young snails or hatchlings.

These snails require the same care of Achatina immaculata, though more heat and humidity is advised, keeping them at around 30c and very humid may prove successful, the original wild caught adults of this form proved very easy to keep and breed, it is the captive bred offspring that have proved much more difficult to keep.

(top) Adult Achatina immaculata var. "two tone"

(bottom) Achatina immaculata var. "two tone" juvenile.

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