Tiger/Zebra Nerite Snail (Vittina semiconica / V. natalensis)

Our Tiger/Zebra Nerite Snails are two of the hardest working algae eaters in the hobby, sold together from one tank: the Zebra Nerite (Vittina natalensis), with bold black stripes on a gold shell, and the Tiger Nerite (Vittina semiconica), orange with black zigzag markings. Both are peaceful, beginner friendly and shrimp safe, and neither can overrun a freshwater tank. Browse the rest of our freshwater invertebrates.

Assorted: each purchase is one snail, tiger or zebra depending on what is in the tank. If you have a preference, let us know at pickup and we will pick from what we have.

Care Guide

• Algae on the menu: they graze film algae, green spot algae and biofilm off glass, rock, wood and plant leaves without harming the plants.
• Water: 72 to 80°F, pH 7.0 to 8.2, moderately hard (GH 6 or more). Soft or acidic water slowly pits the shell, so raise hardness with Seachem Equilibrium or Seachem Replenish.
• Feed when the glass is clean: once the algae runs out, offer a Hikari Algae Wafer or blanched zucchini so they do not starve.
• Keep a lid on it: nerites like to climb, and one that crawls out above the waterline will dry out. A snug lid and a gap-free filter intake keep them in.
• Acclimate slowly: drip acclimate for 30 to 60 minutes and set the snail right side up. One that lands on its back may not be able to flip over.
• Zero copper: copper medications and some plant fertilizers are lethal to snails.

Specifications

Compatibility

Safe with shrimp, other snails and peaceful community fish, and a good tank mate for bettas. They pair well with Amano Shrimp, Neocaridina shrimp and other nerites like the Batman Nerite and Red Racer Nerite.

Keep them away from snail eaters: puffers, loaches, larger cichlids and crayfish will pick at them.

Recommended Foods & Supplies

• Hikari Algae Wafers for when the algae runs short
• Seachem Equilibrium or Seachem Replenish to keep hardness up for a healthy shell
• Batik Nerite and Green Abalone Snail for more algae control
• Amano Shrimp as a cleanup crew partner
• Browse all freshwater invertebrates

FAQ

Will they breed and take over my tank?
No. Nerites may lay small white eggs on rocks and wood, but the larvae need brackish water to survive, so you will never get a population boom.

Can I choose tiger or zebra?
They are sold assorted, but tell us your preference at pickup and we will pick from what is in the tank.

How many do I need?
A good starting point is one snail per 5 gallons. Add more if algae keeps up with them, and feed algae wafers if they run out.

Are they safe with plants and shrimp?
Yes. They eat algae and biofilm, not healthy plants, and leave shrimp and their babies alone.

Why is my snail upside down or not moving?
New snails often rest for a day or two. One stuck on its back may need help, so gently flip it over. A snail that hangs open and smells bad has died and should be removed.