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Freshwater fishThorny Tricolor Snail
Thorny Tricolor Snail
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The thorny tricolor snail, also called the horned nerite snail, is a small algae eater that only grows to 1/2 inch. These aquarium snails are popular for small tanks, however, as they are attractive and eat quite a bit of scum algae (algae on the glass walls). These are terrific snails for little tanks but will get lost in large fish tanks.
This class of freshwater snail is plant-safe and can handle fresh and light brackish water conditions.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Clithon diadema |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific (Philippines and Indonesia; wild-caught) |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful; plant-safe |
| Adult Size | Up to ½–¾" |
| 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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