Ruby Nerite Snail (Neritina natalensis sp)

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Ruby Nerite Snail

Ruby nerite snail456.jpg
Ruby Nerite Snail

Neritina natalensis sp

19 Litres (5 US G.)

1.3-3.2cm (0.5-1.25 ")

sg

1 - 1.025

pH

7.1 - 8.5

18 -28 °C (64.4-82.4°F)

8-12 °d

1:1 M:F

Herbivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Other (See article)

5-10 years


This animal is available captive bred




Alternative names

Ruby Nerite Snail, Red Spotted Snail, Tracked Nerite Snail

Sexing

Nerites are not hermaphrodites, their are separate sexes of male and female snails. It will lay eggs in freshwater, but they won't survive since the young need brackish conditions to live.

Tank compatibility

A peaceful snail, will not bother tank inhabitants. However, should not be kept with aggressive fish that may try to eat it such as Loaches or Pufferfish.

Diet

This snail is a great algae eater. Generally will not touch plants if there is algae present and will eat most types of algae. If no algae is present the snail will have to be supplemented with blanched vegetables and algae wafers.

Feeding regime

Will constantly graze in its environment.

Environment Specifics

Needs a spacious well oxygenated tank with plenty of algae to eat. If put in a new tank with no algae present and not supplemented, it can starve. A tight fitting lid is a must as these snails can be escape artists.
  • must have water with a pH of greater than 7 and GH of greater than 5°d otherwise the shell will dissolve away and the snail will die.
  • The presence of copper in the water will kill it.
  • If properly acclimated to full strength saltwater, they can be home in a marine setup

Behaviour

An attractive snail that will not multiply. They may lay lots of white/yellow eggs however, but they will not hatch. The young need brackish, or saltwater conditions, due to the fact that the larvae need calcium, and minerals to build up their shell; for this reason, you will have the most success rearing them in full-strength marine, and the adults can call brackish, and marine setups home. The eggs harden and can be difficult to remove.
  • This snail is a gill breather.

Identification

A pretty rounded smooth shell with a deep golden brown colour with several bands of black dots. White skin deeply mottled with black pigment.

Pictures

External links