Common name: Funicular Nerite

Care

Caring for Nerita funiculata is relatively straightforward, making it suitable for aquarists of all experience levels. These snails require a stable marine environment with plenty of surfaces to graze on. They are best kept in tanks with live rock and other hard surfaces where algae can grow. While they are tolerant of a range of salinities, maintaining a consistent specific gravity is crucial for their health.

Funicular Nerites are excellent at cleaning algae from glass, rocks, and other surfaces. However, they are not a substitute for proper tank maintenance. Regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters are essential to ensure their well-being. These snails are also sensitive to copper-based medications, which can be fatal, so care should be taken when treating the tank for other issues.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Nerita funiculata primarily feeds on algae and biofilm. In captivity, they will happily graze on naturally occurring algae in the tank. If algae levels are insufficient, supplemental feeding with algae wafers or blanched vegetables like zucchini can be provided. These snails are efficient grazers and play a vital role in maintaining the cleanliness of the aquarium.

Feed them sparingly, as overfeeding can lead to water quality issues. Their diet should be primarily plant-based, and they should not be relied upon to consume detritus or uneaten fish food.

Behavior and Compatibility

Funicular Nerites are peaceful and non-aggressive, making them ideal for community tanks. They coexist well with a variety of tank mates, including fish, corals, and other invertebrates. However, care should be taken to avoid housing them with predatory species that may view them as food, such as certain crabs or wrasses.

These snails are primarily nocturnal, becoming more active during the evening and night. They are known for their ability to cling tightly to surfaces, a trait that helps them survive in their natural intertidal habitats. In the aquarium, this behavior makes them excellent at cleaning hard-to-reach areas.

Reproduction

While Nerita funiculata may lay eggs in captivity, successful breeding is rare. The larvae require specific conditions, including a planktonic stage in the water column, which is difficult to replicate in a home aquarium. As a result, most Funicular Nerites available in the trade are wild-caught.

Health and Common Issues

Funicular Nerites are hardy but can be sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters. Maintaining stable conditions is key to their health. They are also prone to dehydration if they climb out of the tank, so ensure the aquarium is covered to prevent escapes.

When selecting a Funicular Nerite, look for individuals with intact shells and active behavior. Avoid snails with cracked or damaged shells, as this can be a sign of poor health or stress.

Habitat

Nerita funiculata is naturally found in rocky intertidal zones, where it is exposed to both air and water during tidal changes. This environment has made them highly adaptable to fluctuations in salinity and temperature. In captivity, they thrive in tanks that mimic their natural habitat, with plenty of hard surfaces and moderate water flow.