Zebra Horn Snail

Zebra horn snails are small nerite snails (Neritina sp.) marked with fine black and gold stripes running around a smooth, rounded shell, sometimes with short horn-like projections along the edge. They are bought almost entirely for algae control, and they are good at it — a few will keep glass, wood and hardscape noticeably cleaner without touching healthy plants.

Aquarium care

• Small, usually around 1 to 2 cm.
• A dedicated algae grazer that works on film and soft algae across hard surfaces.
• Will not breed in a freshwater tank, because the larvae need brackish water to develop.
• Females still lay small white eggs on wood and glass. They will not hatch, but they are stubborn to remove.
• Needs water with enough calcium and hardness to keep the shell from eroding.
• A determined climber — keep the tank covered or they will end up on the floor.

They suit planted community tanks with peaceful fish, and they are one of the safest snails for people who do not want a snail population explosion. Avoid keeping them with loaches, pufferfish or larger cichlids, all of which will eat them.

Stock rotates with each shipment, and livestock is available for local pickup at our Lethbridge store. See the snails collection.