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Horned Nerite Snail
The Horned Nerite Snail is a highly sought-after freshwater algae eater known for its distinctive shell spikes (“horns”) and excellent cleaning ability. This unique nerite variety is both functional and decorative, making it a standout addition to planted and community aquariums. Constantly grazing on algae, biofilm, and diatoms, Horned Nerite Snails help keep tanks clean without harming live plants.
Approximate Shipping Size: 0.25 inches Very Small!
Appearance
Horned Nerite Snails feature a striking shell pattern that varies from olive, brown, gold, or black tones, often decorated with bold striping and natural “horn-like” protrusions on the shell surface. No two snails look exactly alike, giving each individual a unique, natural appearance. Their textured shell and compact size make them visually interesting even in heavily planted aquariums.
Temperament & Behavior
These snails are completely peaceful and highly active algae grazers. They spend their time moving across glass, rocks, driftwood, and plant surfaces. Horned Nerites are non-invasive in freshwater aquariums and will not overpopulate, making them a reliable long-term cleanup crew member.
Care Requirements
Horned Nerite Snails are extremely hardy and adaptable, thriving in a wide range of freshwater aquarium environments. A stable tank with available algae and hard surfaces will keep them active and healthy.
Tank Size: 5 gallons minimum
Temperature: 68–82°F
pH: 7.0–8.2
Hardness: Moderate to hard (supports strong shell growth)
Aquascape: Glass, rocks, driftwood, plants
Tank Mates
Compatible with nearly all peaceful community fish including guppies, tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, Otocinclus, and shrimp. Avoid aggressive fish that may damage or harass snails, such as large cichlids.
Diet & Feeding
Horned Nerite Snails primarily feed on algae, diatoms, and biofilm. In clean aquariums, supplement with algae wafers, sinking pellets, and blanched vegetables. A calcium-rich diet helps maintain strong shell development.
Quick Facts
Scientific Name: Clithon spp.
Common Name: Horned Nerite Snail
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Algae grazer / Omnivore
Max Size: ~0.5–1 inch
Tank Level: All surfaces
Breeding: Does not reproduce in freshwater
The Horned Nerite Snail is a highly sought-after freshwater algae eater known for its distinctive shell spikes (“horns”) and excellent cleaning ability. This unique nerite variety is both functional and decorative, making it a standout addition to planted and community aquariums. Constantly grazing on algae, biofilm, and diatoms, Horned Nerite Snails help keep tanks clean without harming live plants.
Approximate Shipping Size: 0.25 inches Very Small!
Appearance
Horned Nerite Snails feature a striking shell pattern that varies from olive, brown, gold, or black tones, often decorated with bold striping and natural “horn-like” protrusions on the shell surface. No two snails look exactly alike, giving each individual a unique, natural appearance. Their textured shell and compact size make them visually interesting even in heavily planted aquariums.
Temperament & Behavior
These snails are completely peaceful and highly active algae grazers. They spend their time moving across glass, rocks, driftwood, and plant surfaces. Horned Nerites are non-invasive in freshwater aquariums and will not overpopulate, making them a reliable long-term cleanup crew member.
Care Requirements
Horned Nerite Snails are extremely hardy and adaptable, thriving in a wide range of freshwater aquarium environments. A stable tank with available algae and hard surfaces will keep them active and healthy.
Tank Size: 5 gallons minimum
Temperature: 68–82°F
pH: 7.0–8.2
Hardness: Moderate to hard (supports strong shell growth)
Aquascape: Glass, rocks, driftwood, plants
Tank Mates
Compatible with nearly all peaceful community fish including guppies, tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, Otocinclus, and shrimp. Avoid aggressive fish that may damage or harass snails, such as large cichlids.
Diet & Feeding
Horned Nerite Snails primarily feed on algae, diatoms, and biofilm. In clean aquariums, supplement with algae wafers, sinking pellets, and blanched vegetables. A calcium-rich diet helps maintain strong shell development.
Quick Facts
Scientific Name: Clithon spp.
Common Name: Horned Nerite Snail
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Algae grazer / Omnivore
Max Size: ~0.5–1 inch
Tank Level: All surfaces
Breeding: Does not reproduce in freshwater

