Nerite Snail Care Guide
Quick answer
Nerites are small, peaceful algae eaters for tanks of 5 gallons and up. Keep them in stable, cycled water around 72 to 80°F with a pH of 7 or higher, add an algae wafer when algae runs low, and keep a lid on. They lay small white eggs that will not hatch in fresh water, so they will not overrun your tank.
| Family | Neritidae |
|---|---|
| Adult size | About 0.5 to 1 inch |
| Temperature | 72 to 80°F |
| pH | 7.0 to 8.2 |
| Lifespan | About 1 to 2 years |
| Breeding | Needs brackish water, so no babies in fresh water |
| Good for | Film algae, green spot algae, diatoms |
Why nerites are so popular
Nerites eat the hard to reach film and spot algae on glass, rocks, wood and leaves, and they leave healthy plants alone. They are the go to choice when you want algae control without a population boom.
Those white dots
Nerites lay hard little white eggs on wood and decor. In fresh water they do not hatch, because the larvae need brackish water. They are harmless and fade over time, though they can be hard to scrape off.
Feeding when algae runs out
A clean tank can starve a nerite. If you cannot see algae, add an algae wafer or blanched vegetable once or twice a week.
Keeping them in the tank
Nerites sometimes climb out, especially in the first week. A lid or a lowered water line keeps them home.
Questions
Which nerite is best?
They all do the same job. Olive nerites are the hardiest and lowest cost; zebra, tiger, horned and virgin nerites are chosen for their looks.
Can nerites live with shrimp?
Yes. Nerites are completely safe with shrimp and fish that do not eat snails.
Related guides
Sources
General hobby guidance. Check your state's rules and never release aquarium animals into the wild.