See more: Algae eater
The black helmet snail (Neritina pulligera), also known as the black military helmet or black racer nerite, is a popular freshwater and brackish aquatic snail native to the Indo-Pacific. Highly prized by aquarists, it is an incredibly effective and tireless algae eater that will not reproduce in freshwater.
Key Details & Care
- Appearance: Features a smooth, glossy, jet-black to dark olive-brown shell that resembles an old soldier's helmet.
- Size: Grows up to 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 4 cm) in length.
- Diet: Consumes most types of nuisance algae. If natural algae are lacking, they must be supplemented with blanched vegetables or algae wafers to prevent starvation.
- Reproduction: Females will lay small, sesame seed-like white egg capsules, but these will not hatch in freshwater. This prevents them from overpopulating your tank.
- Tank Mates: Peaceful and safe for planted tanks. Avoid keeping them with snail-eating fish like loaches, large cichlids, or puffers.
Habitat Requirements
- Water Parameters: 22C to 32C
- Hardness: Requires adequate calcium and a higher pH to keep their shells from eroding.
- Tank Setup: They prefer spacious, well-oxygenated tanks with rocky substrates. Because they are excellent climbers and escape artists, a tight-fitting lid is essential
