Nerite snails are one of the most popular types of freshwater aquarium snail. They are prized for their attractive shells and their ability to help keep aquariums clean.
One common question that aquarium owners have is whether or not nerite snails will eat plants. The answer is yes and no.
Nerite snails are scavengers and will consume just about anything they come across in the aquarium including algae detritus and uneaten fish food. They are not particular and will even eat live plants if given the opportunity.
While nerite snails will eat live plants they usually only do so if there is not enough algae or other food sources available. If your nerite snails are eating your plants it is likely due to a lack of food options and not because they enjoy eating plants.
If you are concerned about your nerite snails eating your plants there are a few things you can do to help discourage them. First make sure that you are providing enough algae and other food sources for them to eat. You can alsotry attaching plants securely to driftwood or rocks using fishing line or zip ties. This will make it more difficult for the snails to reach the plants and will give them a better chance of surviving.
Ultimately whether or not nerite snails eat plants is up to the individual snail. Some will nibble on plants while others will leave them alone. As long as you are providing enough food sources your nerite snails should not have a significant impact on your aquarium plants.
Do nerite snails eat plants?
No nerite snails are vegetarian and only eat algae.
What do nerite snails eat?
Algae
Where do nerite snails come from?
Nerite snails are native to Africa Asia and Australia
How big do nerite snails get?
Most nerite snails only grow to be about an inch in size.
What is the lifespan of a nerite snail?
Nerite snails can live up to 3 years.
Do nerite snails need brackish water to survive?
No nerite snails can live in both fresh and brackish water.
What is the scientific name for nerite snails?
The scientific name for nerite snails is Neritina natalensis.
Do all nerite snails have stripes?
No there are many different varieties of nerite snails and not all of them have stripes.
How do nerite snails reproduce?
Nerite snails are hermaphrodites meaning that they have both male and female reproductive organs.
What do nerite snail babies look like?
Nerite snail babies or larvae are microscopic and look like tiny black dots.
How long does it take for nerite snail babies to grow into adults?
It takes nerite snail babies about 3 to 4 weeks to grow into adults.
Do nerite snails have predators?
Yes nerite snails have many predators including fish crabs and other invertebrates.
What do nerite snails do for fun?
Nerite snails like to swim and explore their tank or aquarium.
What do nerite snails need in their tank?
Nerite snails need a tank with both fresh and salt water as well as plenty of algae to eat.
What are some things to avoid when keeping nerite snails?
Some things to avoid when keeping nerite snails include chemicals and pollutants in the water as well as not enough algae for the snails to eat.
