
Again, nerites prefer planted tanks and they are very active algae eaters. While nerite snails are adaptable to a range of tank parameters, they generally prefer tropical temperatures with slightly alkaline, fairly hard water. You may want to avoid very large or aggressive species of fish, however, especially if your nerite snails are small – they may become prey for aggressive fish like loaches and even goldfish and certain cichlids. Horned Nerite Snail ( Neritina clithon corona) – These nerite snails have very thick stripes and they grow horn-like spikes along the front of the shell.įor the most part, nerite snails are peaceful tank mates that do well in a community tank.Olive Nerite Snail ( Neritina reclivata) – One of the smaller species of nerites, olive nerites have an olive green shell with a black line around the coil.Black Racer Nerite Snail ( Neritina pulligera) – Named for their black coloration, these nerite snails also tend to move more quickly than other nerites.Tiger Nerite Snail ( Neritina turrita) – Similar in appareance to zebras, tiger nerites have a more intense orange coloration and more jagged stripes.

Zebra Nerite Snail ( Neritina natalensis zebra) – This species is typically black and yellow in color with zebra-like stripes that point toward the center of the shell’s coil.Here is a quick overview of some of the most popular species of nerite snail: There are five subfamilies in the family Neritidae and about 110 species. Nerite snails belong to the family Neritidae, named after the Greek sea god Nerites. Most nerite snails are freshwater snails, though there are a few marine species which could be an option for a saltwater tank. Size, color, and pattern varies from one species of nerite snail to another. When properly cared for, nerite snails live about a year and they grow up to the size of a quarter, depending on the species. They can be sensitive to ammonia and high levels of nitrate, but they are generally pretty hardy. Nerite snails do best in an established planted aquarium where the tank parameters have had time to stabilize. Keep in mind as well that nerites, like all snails, are sensitive to copper and other medications and that they may require supplemental calcium to maintain their shells. They prefer tropical water, however – between 72 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit – and they prefer slightly alkaline water, around 7.5 on the pH scale. These snails are adaptable to a wide range of tank parameters. In addition to being quite colorful and attractive, nerite snails are very easy to care for in the freshwater tank. Nerite snails are incredibly peaceful, safe to keep with just about any species of fish, and because they require salt to reproduce there is very little risk that they will overpopulate a freshwater tank. Nerite snails often exhibit bold stripes or barred patterns on their shells which is why several species are named after animals like the zebra or tiger. While nerite snails are most popular for their tank-cleaning abilities, they are also one of the more attractive and unique-looking freshwater snail species around. Here’s everything you need to know about nerite snails. Nerite snails are a versatile addition to the freshwater tank, and they are generally easy to maintain. When it comes to freshwater cleanup crews, think beyond common options like Plecostomus and Corydoras catfish – consider the nerite snail. A freshwater cleanup crew of algae eaters and bottom feeders can take the weight off your shoulders and help you keep your tank clean and the water quality high. Your tank is beautiful and thriving, but it may not stay that way for long unless you keep up with routine tank maintenance.Īs an aquarium hobbyist, maintenance is absolutely essential for the wellbeing of your tank and your tank inhabitants, but you don’t have to do all the maintenance yourself. You’ve spent hours assembling and decorating your freshwater aquarium – you’ve even gone through the length process of cycling the tank and slowly adding fish.
