Zebra Nerite Snail (Neritina natalensis) Import
R38,00
The Zebra Nerite Snail is a small, hardy, and strikingly patterned freshwater snail that is excellent for controlling algae in aquariums. Its black and yellow-striped shell resembles a zebra pattern, making it a popular choice for aquascaped tanks.
The Zebra Nerite Snail is a small, hardy, and strikingly patterned freshwater snail that is excellent for controlling algae in aquariums. Its black and yellow-striped shell resembles a zebra pattern, making it a popular choice for aquascaped tanks.
Quick Facts:
- Scientific Name: Neritina natalensis
- Common Names: Zebra Nerite Snail, Tiger Nerite Snail
- Origin: East Africa (Rivers & Estuaries in Kenya, Mozambique, South Africa)
- Size: 2–3 cm
- Lifespan: 2–5 years
- Temperament: Peaceful, non-aggressive
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: 20+ litres (larger for multiple snails)
- Temperature: 22–28°C
- pH Range: 7.0–8.5 (prefers alkaline water)
- Water Hardness: 6–12 dGH (needs calcium for shell health)
- Filtration: Moderate flow with good oxygenation
- Substrate & Decorations:
- Smooth gravel or sand (prevents shell damage).
- Live plants (Anubias, Java Fern, Moss, Vallisneria).
- Driftwood & rocks provide surfaces for grazing.
Behavior & Tank Mates
- Peaceful and non-aggressive, best kept in community tanks.
- Algae grazers – help keep glass, rocks, and decorations clean.
- Do not eat live plants but may feed on dying leaves.
- Compatible Tank Mates:
- Small peaceful fish (Tetras, Rasboras, Guppies, Corydoras).
- Other snails (Mystery Snails, Ramshorn Snails).
- Shrimp (Neocaridina, Amano, Caridina Shrimp).
- Avoid aggressive species like Cichlids and Loaches (may nip at snails).
Diet
Zebra Nerite Snails are herbivorous algae eaters, but they benefit from supplemental feeding:
- Natural algae & biofilm (main food source).
- Blanched vegetables (zucchini, cucumber, spinach).
- Algae wafers & spirulina-based foods.
- Calcium-rich supplements (cuttlebone, crushed coral for shell health).
Breeding
- Only breeds in brackish water (won’t reproduce in freshwater).
- Will lay white, hard eggs on surfaces in freshwater, but they won’t hatch.
- No risk of overpopulation in freshwater tanks.
Care Tips
✔ Ensure stable water parameters – avoid sudden changes.
✔ Avoid copper-based medications (toxic to snails).
✔ Provide a calcium source for strong shell growth.
✔ Keep a tight-fitting lid – they may crawl out if water conditions are poor.
Why Keep Zebra Nerite Snails?
✅ Excellent natural algae cleaner
✅ Beautiful striped shell pattern
✅ Does not overpopulate in freshwater
✅ Low maintenance and peaceful
Would you like help with algae control strategies or snail tank setups? 😊
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