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Freshwater fishThorny Sunshine Snail
Thorny Sunshine Snail
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The thorny sunshine snail, also called a horned nerite snail, or simply the sun snail, is an aggressive (if you can use that word for a snail) algae eater. These snails are the same size as the nerite family, with similar care requirements. Sun snails are more difficult to breed and so command a slightly higher price than the nerite snail. These are SMALL snails and great for small tanks, but they will get lost in larger tanks.
Clithon snails are plant-safe and can handle fresh and light brackish water conditions.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Clithon sp. (sold as C. subgranosa) |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific (Philippines and Indonesia; wild-caught) |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful; plant-safe |
| Adult Size | Up to ¾" |
| Lifespan | 1–2+ years |
| Diet | Algae eater (also eats algae wafers) |
| Water Temperature | 72–82°F |
| pH | 7.0–8.5 |
| Breeding | Lays small white eggs that won't hatch in freshwater |
| Shipping Size | Approx. ¼–½" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Keep the water hard and alkaline for healthy shells, and keep a lid on the tank, since nerites sometimes climb out.
Feeding: They graze on algae. In a very clean tank, add algae wafers so they don't go hungry.
Tankmates: They are ideal tankmates for shrimp and small peaceful fish. Avoid puffers, loaches and assassin snails.
Good to know: Their small "horns" are part of the shell. Remove snails before treating the tank with copper or other medications.
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