Common name: Nerite Snail

General information

The Nerite Snail, Neritina waigiensis, is a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts due to its algae-eating habits and its contribution to keeping the tank clean. Originating from brackish waters, these snails are adaptable and can thrive in both freshwater and saltwater environments, although they cannot reproduce in freshwater.

Their attractive shell patterns and colors, which can range from dark brown to olive green with variable markings, make them a visually appealing addition to the aquarium.

Care

Nerite Snails are known for their hardiness and are relatively easy to care for. They prefer tanks with plenty of live rock or other surfaces to graze on algae. It's important to ensure that the tank is well-cycled and has a stable environment, as sudden changes in water parameters can be harmful to them.

These snails do not require additional feeding if there is sufficient algae growth in the tank, but if algae are scarce, they can be supplemented with blanched vegetables or commercial algae wafers.

Reproduction

Reproduction of Neritina waigiensis in the home aquarium is rare, as they lay eggs in brackish water, but the larvae need full marine conditions to develop. This complex life cycle makes breeding them in captivity a challenge.

Habitat

Neritina waigiensis is found in a range of habitats from freshwater to brackish waters, often in rivers and estuaries with a substrate of rocks or mangrove roots where they can graze on algae. They are native to the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines and Indonesia.