El Neritin Natalensis, also known as zebra snail o tiger snail, is a species of freshwater or slightly brackish water snail that stands out for its usefulness in aquariums thanks to its ability to control algae and keep glass and decorations clean. In this article, we will explore in depth everything you need to know about this fascinating species, from its physical characteristics and habitat to its diet and reproduction.
Physical Characteristics of Neritina Natalensis
El zebra snail It is small in size, ranging from 2 to 3 centimeters in diameter. Its shell is robust and varies between orange and brown tones, with distinctive patterns of black or dark stripes. These stripes can be thinner, thicker or even non-existent, depending on each specimen. Some specimens have solid colors, which increases their ornamental value in aquariums.
A characteristic element of the Neritin It is their operculum, a disk-like structure that allows them to seal completely within their shell, providing them with protection from predators and adverse environmental conditions.
Distribution and Natural Habitat
El Neritin Natalensis It is native to the African continent, living in countries such as Kenya, Somalia, Tanzania, Mozambique y South AfricaIts natural environment includes mangroves and coastal lagoons, which explains its tolerance to slightly brackish waters. These characteristics have allowed it to easily adapt to domestic aquariums.
There are rumors about the existence of a similar species in Asian countries such as India, but to date no definitive studies have been confirmed in this regard.
Behavior and Compatibility
El zebra snail It is a peaceful species, ideal for living with other species. de peces freshwater. Due to its algae-based diet, it does not pose a danger to aquarium plants, making it an ally in maintaining the balance of the aquatic ecosystem.
These snails are predominantly nocturnal and can sometimes leave the water. For this reason, it is advisable to keep the aquarium covered. In addition, it is important to avoid combining them with fish that feed on mollusks, as this could endanger their survival.
Aquarium Conditions
Create an appropriate environment for the Neritin Natalensis is essential to ensure their well-being. Here are the basic parameters:
- Aquarium volume: A minimum of 20 litres is recommended to accommodate one or two specimens. For every additional three litres, one more snail can be included.
- Temperature: The ideal range is between 20°C and 28°C.
- pH of water: It ranges between 6.5 and 7.5.
- Oxygen levels: A well-oxygenated aquarium is crucial for its development.
- Plants: They prefer planted aquariums with broad leaves, which serve both as shelter and as additional surface for algae growth.
Meals
The main diet of the zebra snail It consists of algae, which makes it one of the most natural methods to control their proliferation in aquariums. It is advisable to introduce them into aquariums that are already mature and have a sufficient amount of algae.
If algae is not enough, you can supplement their diet with algae-based tablets, homemade porridge made from boiled vegetables or frozen foods specifically for snails. In addition, it is important to provide them with calcium supplements to ensure the health of their shell. A common practice is to place previously boiled eggshells in the aquarium.
Reproduction
The reproduction of the Neritin Natalensis It is complex and rarely occurs in freshwater aquariums. This is because the eggs require a brackish environment to hatch. Despite its difficulties, the process is fascinating:
- Egg laying: Snails scatter small white eggs (1 mm in diameter) onto aquarium surfaces such as glass and decorations.
- Necessary conditions: For the eggs to develop, it is essential to transfer them to an aquarium with saline water.
- Differentiation of sexes: This snail is not hermaphrodite, and there are no visible differences between males and females, which makes it difficult to form reproductive pairs.
Despite the difficulties, many aquarists choose to directly acquire specimens bred in optimal conditions if they wish to increase the population of this species in their tank.
El Neritin Natalensis Not only is it visually appealing due to its unique patterns and colors, but it also plays a crucial role in aquarium maintenance, removing algae and contributing to the balance of the ecosystem. With proper care, it can be a valuable addition to any aquarium hobbyist.