Tiger Nerite Snail

Tiger Nerite Snail (Neritina semiconica) is native to freshwater habitats across multiple continents. The captive-bred Tiger Nerite Snail sold at most LFS comes from generations of farmed stock and is generally hardier and better-acclimated to tank conditions than wild-caught equivalents. Wild specimens are occasionally available for keepers chasing original-bloodline coloration or biotope-accurate stocking.

Tiger Nerite Snail requires a minimum of 5 gallons for healthy adults. The minimum is based on the species' adult size (1 inch), territorial range, and behavior pattern. Most Tiger Nerite Snail sold at small juvenile size will reach full adult size within 12-24 months and the system must be sized to the adult, not the juvenile.

For a Tiger Nerite Snail setup: mature planted tank or low-stocked community tank with stable parameters, mineralized substrate (or remineralized RO/DI for Caridina), low-flow filtration that does not suck up shrimplets, and minimal copper exposure (avoid copper-treated medications).

Browse our 5-gallon aquarium guide for the complete equipment list.

Tiger Nerite Snail prefers freshwater parameters:
Temperature: 70-78°F
pH: 6.5-7.5
GH: 4-12 dGH
KH: 3-8 dKH
Ammonia + nitrite: Both 0 ppm
Nitrate: Under 20 ppm long-term
Copper: 0 (especially critical for invertebrates)

Use dechlorinator on every water change. Test parameters weekly during cycling, biweekly once stable. Stable consistency beats sliding-scale "ideal" parameters.

Tiger Nerite Snail is a algae grazer. Provides natural algae control by grazing on filamentous, hair, and turf algae throughout the tank. Supplemental nori sheets and algae wafers ensure adequate nutrition when tank algae is depleted. Avoid copper-based algaecides - they kill Tiger Nerite Snail. Feed Tiger Nerite Snail appropriately for its size + activity level. Overfeeding is the #1 cause of water-quality crashes in tanks of all sizes.

Tiger Nerite Snail works alongside peaceful community fish. Avoid mixing with fin-nippers (some tetras, barbs), aggressive cichlids, or large predators. Best in shrimp-only or mostly-shrimp tanks for breeding success - any larger fish will eat shrimplets.

Browse care guides for tankmate-compatibility tables for Tiger Nerite Snail and similar species.

Tiger Nerite Snail reaches 1 inch at adulthood with a captive lifespan of 1-2 years with proper care. Females carry eggs under the abdomen until hatch; in stable tanks, breeding populations sustain themselves indefinitely.

Yes - Tiger Nerite Snail is one of the more readily-bred freshwater invertebrates. Most freshwater snails self-fertilize and reproduce continuously in stable tanks; some (nerites) require brackish water for egg viability.

Tiger Nerite Snail is susceptible to standard freshwater diseases (ich, columnaris, fin rot, bacterial infections). Quarantine new Tiger Nerite Snail for 4 weeks before adding to your display tank. Treat fish in a separate hospital tank to avoid affecting plants and inverts. Most disease outbreaks trace back to poor water quality, chronic stress, or skipped quarantine.

Tiger Nerite Snail is sold at LFS (local fish stores), online retailers, and direct from breeders/wholesalers. Pricing varies widely by source, size, and quality:

Budget tier: $5-25
Mid-tier: $15-50
Premium tier: $40-150

Browse live Tiger Nerite Snail from vetted Fast Aquatics vendors with carrier-tracked overnight shipping (FedEx Priority + UPS Next Day), climate-aware hold logic, and a 4-hour DOA window with photo-evidence claims. Captive-bred or aquacultured specimens cost more upfront but arrive healthier and integrate faster.

How big does Tiger Nerite Snail get?

1 inch at adulthood within 12-24 months.

How long does Tiger Nerite Snail live?

1-2 years with proper care.

What is the minimum tank/pond size?

5 gallons, with larger systems strongly recommended.

Is Tiger Nerite Snail hard to keep?

Tiger Nerite Snail is rated beginner difficulty.

What does Tiger Nerite Snail eat?

Tiger Nerite Snail is a algae grazer; appropriate diet matches its natural feeding pattern.

Where can I buy Tiger Nerite Snail?

Browse live Tiger Nerite Snail from vetted Fast Aquatics vendors with carrier-tracked Buyer Protection and a 4-hour DOA window.

How much does Tiger Nerite Snail cost?

$5-150 depending on source and quality.

Do I need to quarantine Tiger Nerite Snail?

Yes - quarantine new Tiger Nerite Snail for 4-6 weeks in a separate tank before adding to your display.

Is Tiger Nerite Snail reef safe?

Not applicable - Tiger Nerite Snail is not a marine reef species.