Nerite Snail -Zebra

Pictures of fish and fish in store may vary, these are just examples/fully grown fish

Zebra Nerite Snail

Scientific Name: Neritina natalensis
Common Names: Zebra Nerite, Tiger Nerite, Striped Nerite
Origin: East Africa – rivers and brackish estuaries of Kenya, Mozambique, Tanzania
Adult Size: 0.75–1 inch (2–2.5 cm)
Lifespan: 1–2 years on average
Temperament: Peaceful, non-aggressive
Swimming Zone: Bottom and glass surfaces

Sales Description

The Zebra Nerite Snail is one of the most popular and attractive freshwater snails in the aquarium hobby, admired for its bold black-and-gold spiral stripes that resemble tiger or zebra patterns. Small, efficient, and peaceful, this snail is a natural algae cleaner and a great addition to planted or nano aquariums.

Unlike many other snails, Zebra Nerites do not reproduce in freshwater, making them ideal for aquarists who want effective algae control without worrying about population explosions. Their unique patterning adds ornamental value while also serving a functional role in the tank’s ecosystem.

Care Guide

Zebra Nerite Snails are undemanding and thrive in a wide range of aquarium conditions. They do best in stable, fully cycled aquariums with temperatures between 72–78°F (22–26°C) and a pH above 7.0 to ensure healthy shell growth. Soft, acidic water can slowly erode their shells over time, so buffering with crushed coral or mineral supplements may be beneficial in low-pH environments. They are sensitive to poor water quality, so regular maintenance and avoiding copper-based medications are essential.

These snails are expert algae eaters, especially fond of soft green algae, biofilm, and diatoms found on glass, plant leaves, and hardscape. While they usually find enough to graze on in well-established tanks, supplemental feeding with blanched vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or algae wafers can help ensure they're getting enough nutrition—especially in newer or cleaner setups.

They are completely peaceful and can be kept with virtually any non-predatory tankmates including shrimp, small fish, tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and livebearers. However, care should be taken when keeping them with loaches or puffers, which may nip at or eat snails.

Zebra Nerites may occasionally crawl above the waterline, especially if conditions are not ideal. Keep the aquarium well-covered to prevent escapes. They are not known to harm plants and are considered 100% plant safe.

Breeding Notes

Zebra Nerite Snails will lay small, white, sesame seed-like eggs on hard surfaces, but these will not hatch in freshwater. They require brackish water for their larvae to develop, so in freshwater tanks the eggs are harmless and will not result in baby snails. If desired, they can be scraped off decor or glass surfaces during regular maintenance.