Zebra Nerite snails | 1-2 cms | 1 Pc

Nerite Snail (Neritina sp.)

The Nerite Snail is one of the most popular and efficient algae-eating snails in the aquarium hobby. Known for their stunning shell patterns and exceptional cleaning abilities, Nerite Snails are perfect for both beginners and experienced aquarists. They come in various types such as Zebra, Tiger, Olive, and Horned, each with unique markings that add visual appeal to any freshwater or brackish setup.

Appearance & Behavior:

Nerite Snails are small, peaceful invertebrates typically ranging from 1 to 2.5 cm in size. Their shells are beautifully patterned—some have bold stripes or spirals, while others are solid-colored or spotted. These snails are very active during the day and often seen gliding across glass, rocks, and plant leaves in search of algae.

Tank Requirements:

• Tank Size: Minimum 5–10 gallons
• Temperature: 22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F)
• pH Range: 7.0 – 8.5
• Water Hardness: Moderate to hard (for shell health)
• Substrate: Any type; sand or fine gravel preferred
• Compatibility: Peaceful community fish, shrimp, and plants

Important: Nerite Snails require hard, alkaline water to prevent shell erosion. They also cannot breed in freshwater—they lay eggs, but the larvae need brackish water to survive, making them a great option for population control.

Diet & Feeding:

Nerite Snails are exceptional at cleaning:

• Soft algae on glass and decorations
• Biofilm on plants
• Uneaten fish food

Though they primarily feed on algae, they benefit from occasional supplemental food like:

• Algae wafers
• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)
• Calcium-rich foods for shell health

Tip: Ensure your tank has enough natural algae. In low-algae setups, you must provide extra food.

Care & Maintenance:

Nerite Snails are hardy, easy to care for, and adapt well to most aquarium conditions.

• Perform regular water changes
• Avoid copper-based medications
• Ensure calcium is available (crushed coral, mineral stones, or cuttlebone)

Their shells can degrade in soft or acidic water, so keeping the pH and hardness stable is essential.

Breeding:

Nerite Snails do not reproduce in freshwater. They may lay tiny white eggs on hard surfaces, but these eggs will not hatch unless the water is brackish. This makes them ideal for those who want algae control without the risk of overpopulation.

Why Choose Nerite Snails?

• Excellent natural algae eaters
• No risk of overbreeding in freshwater
• Beautiful shell patterns for visual appeal
• Peaceful and plant-safe
• Perfect for freshwater and brackish tanks

Note: Nerite Snails may climb above the waterline—ensure your tank has a secure lid to prevent escape.