Zebra Horn Nerite Snail

Overview

• Common Name: Zebra Horn Nerite Snail
• Scientific Name: Clithon corona
• Family: Neritidae
• Size: 0.5–1 inch (1.3–2.5 cm)
• Lifespan: 1–2 years
• Appearance: Distinctive zebra-striped shell with spiny “horns”
• Behavior: Peaceful, active algae grazer

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons
• Substrate: Any (sand or gravel)
• Décor: Rocks, driftwood, glass walls (for algae growth)
• Plants: Safe — will not eat live plants
• Cover: Essential — they are escape artists
• Lighting: Moderate (encourages algae growth for grazing)

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• pH: 7.0–8.5 (alkaline preferred)
• Hardness: Moderate to hard (6–15 dGH, for shell health)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: < 20 ppm

Soft or acidic water can lead to shell erosion.

Diet

• Feeding Type: Herbivore (algae grazer)
• Primary Foods:
• Biofilm & algae on glass, rocks, and décor
• Supplemental Feeding:
• Algae wafers
• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)
• Spirulina flakes
• Calcium-rich snail food (if shell damage occurs)

Behaviour & Compatibility

• Temperament: Very peaceful
• Tankmates:
• Safe with shrimp, tetras, guppies, rasboras, snails
• Avoid: Loaches, puffers, bettas with aggressive tendencies
• Activity: Day-active and constantly foraging
• Movement: Strong foot grip — can climb glass, rocks, décor

Breeding

• Reproduction: Will lay small white eggs on hard surfaces
• Notes:
• Requires brackish or marine water to hatch
• No risk of population explosion in freshwater tanks
• Eggs may be unsightly but are harmless

Care Tips

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

• Keep a tight-fitting lid — they may climb out
• Add calcium sources for shell health
• Don’t use copper-based medications
• Gently remove snails from glass — their foot is strong
• Great algae control, but they need food once algae is depleted