Nerite Snail

Neritina spp.

The best algae-eating snail. Nerites devour diatoms, green algae, and film algae from glass, rocks, and plants without damaging them. Available in Zebra, Tiger, Horned, and Olive varieties.

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Quick Facts

Max Size1"

Lifespan1–3 years

Min Tank5 gal

DietHerbivore

SchoolingNo

OriginAfrica

Water Parameters

Temperature22–28°C

pH Range7–8.5

Natural Habitat

Tidal and coastal rivers in tropical regions worldwide. Require brackish or saltwater for successful egg development.

Region

Coastal rivers worldwide

Countries

Worldwide (tropical)

Feeding

Algae only — biofilm, diatoms, green spot algae. Supplement with algae wafers if tank is too clean.

Compatible Tank Mates

Good Matches

Everything peacefulCommunity tanksPlanted tanksShrimp tanks

Avoid

PuffersLoaches (some eat snails)Assassin Snails

Breeding

Cannot breed in freshwater. Females lay white sesame-seed-like eggs on hardscape, but they won't hatch. This is actually an advantage — no snail population explosion.