The Spotted Snail is a popular freshwater snail, admired for its glossy shell covered in fine spots and speckles. Every snail has a slightly different pattern, so each one is unique. It is also one of the most useful clean-up crew members you can add to a tank.

Spotted Snails are steady algae grazers. They work over glass, rocks, driftwood and hardscape, and they eat green spot algae, diatoms and biofilm that many other snails ignore. They are peaceful, safe for plants, and do not bother fish or shrimp, which makes them a good fit for community tanks and planted aquariums.

A well-known bonus is that freshwater nerites will not breed in aquariums, since their young need brackish water to develop. You may see small white egg specks on decor or glass, but they will not hatch in freshwater, so your tank will not be overrun with snails.

Keep the tank tightly covered, as nerites are known to climb out. Stable, mature water with some natural algae and a calcium source will keep the shell smooth and healthy.

Care Highlights:

• Tank Size: Minimum 5 gallons
• Water Parameters: pH 7.0-8.5, moderately hard water, temperature 22-28°C
• Diet: Algae, biofilm, algae wafers, blanched vegetables such as zucchini and spinach
• Temperament: Peaceful, suitable for community and shrimp tanks
• Special Needs: Tight-fitting lid, calcium source (cuttlebone or mineral rocks), avoid copper-based medications
• Breeding: Will not breed in freshwater tanks

Whether you are fighting stubborn algae or just want a good-looking, low-maintenance helper, this Spotted Snail is a smart addition to your aquarium.