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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