How to Care for Nerite Snail Eggs

There are several reasons people choose to have Nerite snails in their aquariums. They are peaceful, and harmless to other fish. They can be kept in a saltwater or freshwater aquariums. They are prolific algae eaters and help keep the aquarium environment clean. Some people use the snail larvae as food for other fish. Whatever the reason, you can successfully breed Nerite snails if you have the proper equipment, and by providing ideal conditions for them to thrive.

Things You'll Need

  • 5 gallon tank
  • Coral substrate
  • Brackish water
  • Hydrometer
  • Algae wafers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up a breeding tank for the snails. Any size of aquarium will be suitable, but no less than 5 gallons. Use fine crushed coral mix as a substrate. The newly hatched snails will need the calcium to grow strong, healthy shells. Make the water brackish by maintaining the saline level to be 1.005 to 1.010. Use a hydrometer to help keep the the salt level accurate. Maintain water temperature at 79 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not use a filtration system, as there is a danger of the snail larvae getting sucked into it.

    • 2

      Put the snails you are breeding in the tank you set up. Feed them an abundant amount of algae wafers, as much as they can consume. The snails will breed more readily when they are well fed. It is okay to leave the snails in the tank after the eggs are produced, they will not harm the eggs.

    • 3

      Move newly hatched snail larvae to a saltwater tank that does not contain any fish that will eat them. Move them back to the brackish water when they develop a shell. Allow them to grow and gain strength, and then you can move them to their permanent home.