Zebra Nerite Snail (Neritina natalensis) A classic for a reason. The Zebra Nerite Snail is one of the most reliable and effective algae eaters in the aquarium hobby. Recognised by its bold black-and-cream striped shell, Zebra Nerites are tireless grazers that keep glass, rocks, wood, and hardscape free from soft...
A classic for a reason. The Zebra Nerite Snail is one of the most reliable and effective algae eaters in the aquarium hobby.
Recognised by its bold black-and-cream striped shell, Zebra Nerites are tireless grazers that keep glass, rocks, wood, and hardscape free from soft green algae and biofilm. They’re completely plant-safe and ideal for planted and aquascaped tanks of all sizes.
Like all nerite snails, Zebra Nerites do not breed in freshwater, making them a worry-free clean-up crew with no risk of population explosions.
Why choose Zebra Nerite Snails?
Excellent algae and biofilm control
Won’t reproduce in freshwater
100% plant-safe
Peaceful with fish & shrimp
Perfect for aquascaped & planted aquariums
Their hardy nature and steady grazing make them ideal for beginners and experienced aquascapers alike.
Care Information:
Scientific name:Neritina natalensis
Adult size: 2–3 cm
Temperament: Completely peaceful
Tank size: 20L+
Water parameters:
Temperature: 18–28°C (22–25°C Optimum)
pH: 6.0–8.5 (if keeping in softer water shells may peel, use mineral foodswith calcium to keep shells healthy)
Diet: Algae, biofilm (supplement with algae wafers if required)
⚠️ Note: Small white eggs may appear on hard surfaces. These will not hatch in freshwater and can be removed if desired.
A staple clean-up snail for any well-maintained aquarium — practical, attractive, and dependable.
We only ship snails out on Mondays for delivery on Tuesday (order before 11pm)
How We Ship Our Snails
We usually ship our snails using a "low-stress" damp method rather than filling a bag with water. We gently wrap them in damp paper towel and place them in an deli cup. This keeps them moist and safe without letting the water get dirty during the trip.
Why Your Snails Might Look "Dead" (Dormancy)
When your box arrives, your snails will probably be tightly closed up and completely still. They are not dead—they are just sleeping.
Shipping tricks the snails into thinking it is "low tide," so they go into a protective sleep mode to save energy. It takes them a little while to realise they are safe in a new home.
How to Wake Them Up
Put them in water: Place the snails into your tank or a small bowl of tank water.
Face them down: Place them right-side up on the bottom of the tank. Nerite snails cannot flip themselves over easily. If they are upside down, they won't open up.
Wait 24 hours: It can take anywhere from 4 to 24 hours for a snail to wake up and start moving.
Still worried? Give the snail a quick sniff. If it smells completely normal, it is just resting. A dead snail will have a very strong, terrible odour.
