Nerite Snail Care Guide
Neritina spp. · Easy care · 5 gallon minimum
The premier algae-eating snail — eats hair and film algae and can't breed in freshwater, so no plagues.
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How big does a nerite snail get?
A nerite snail (Neritina spp.) reaches about 1.0 inches as an adult. Plan tank size and tank mates around the adult size, not the small fish you buy at the store.
Tank size & setup
Give a nerite snail a minimum of 5 gallons, with water at 72–78°F and a pH of 7–8. As a easy-care, herbivore species, a stable, cycled tank with the right diet keeps them healthiest.
Good tank mates
Pair a nerite snail with peaceful species that share its temperature and pH range. Compatible options include:
- Neon Tetra — 1.5", 10g min
- Guppy — 2.0", 10g min
- Molly — 4.0", 20g min
- Platy — 2.5", 10g min
- Zebra Danio — 2.0", 10g min
About the nerite snail
Vittina natalensis, commonly known as spotted nerite or zebra nerite, is a species of small freshwater snail with an operculum, an aquatic gastropod mollusk in the family Neritidae, the nerites. It returns to brackish waters to reproduce. This is a popular aquarium snail, sold because it looks attractive and eats algae in freshwater tanks, but can only reproduce in saltwater or brackish water conditions.
Recommended gear for nerite snails
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