Spotted Nerite Snail (2 CM)
£3.30
Please note, due to variations within species, your item may not look identical to the image provided.
The Spotted Nerite Snail (Vittina natalensis) is a small freshwater and brackish aquatic snail famous for eating algae in home fish tanks.
100 in stock
Description
Overview and Origin
- Scientific Name: Vittina natalensis (also known as Neritina natalensis)
- Native Range: Coastal East Africa, including Kenya, Mozambique, Somalia, South Africa, and Tanzania.
- Size: Grows up to about 2.5 cm (1 inch).
- Lifespan: Usually lives for 1 to 2 years.
Appearance and Behavior
- Shell Pattern: Features smooth shells with red, orange, or dark spots and black banding over a yellowish-tan background.
- Movement: Slow-moving gastropod that glides across rocks and glass. It does not burrow into the substrate.
- Escape Artist: Known to climb up and out of open tanks, requiring a secure aquarium lid.
Tank Requirements and Care
- Water Type: Thrives in freshwater aquariums with good mineral content, but requires brackish or saltwater conditions to complete its reproductive cycle. They will lay white, sesame-seed-like eggs on decor or glass in fresh water, but the eggs will not hatch.
- Water Temperature: 22–26 °C (72–79 °F).
- pH Level: 7.5 to 8.5 (prefers hard, alkaline water to protect its shell).
- Diet: Primarily grazes on microalgae, biofilm, and diatoms. Supplement with algae wafers or blanched vegetables if tank algae runs low.
- Tank Mates: Peaceful temperament; compatible with shrimp, snails, and non-aggressive fish. Avoid loaches or puffers that eat snails.
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