Nerite Yellow Helmet Snail (Neritina pulligera) – Bright, Reliable Algae Cleaner

🐚 Nerite Yellow Helmet Snail (Neritina pulligera) – Bright, Reliable Algae Cleaner

The Nerite Yellow Helmet Snail is a hardy and striking freshwater snail, named for its smooth, dome-shaped yellow to golden shell that resembles a tiny helmet. Known for their unmatched ability to remove algae, these peaceful snails are ideal for planted tanks, shrimp setups, and community aquariums.

Unlike pest snails, Yellow Helmet Nerites won’t reproduce in freshwater, keeping your tank balanced while maintaining crystal-clear glass and décor.

🌟 Key Features

• 🟡 Distinctive “Helmet” Shell: Smooth, rounded yellow shell that adds color and contrast
• 🧽 Superior Algae Eater: Feeds on soft algae and biofilm on glass, rocks, and plants
• 🌿 Completely Plant-Safe: Will not eat or damage live plants
• 💧 No Overbreeding: Eggs won’t hatch in freshwater conditions
• 💪 Hardy & Peaceful: Great addition to community tanks or shrimp aquariums
• 🐌 Small but Mighty: Effective cleaners even in nano setups

⚙️ Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Neritina pulligera (var. Yellow Helmet)
• Common Name: Nerite Yellow Helmet Snail
• Adult Size: ~1 inch
• Tank Size: 5 gallons and up
• Water Temperature: 72–80°F
• pH: 7.0–8.2
• Hardness: Medium–hard (ensure calcium-rich water for healthy shells)
• Diet: Algae, biofilm, algae wafers, and blanched vegetables
• Behavior: Peaceful; safe with shrimp and small fish
• Tank Mates: Tetras, guppies, rasboras, corydoras, and other peaceful species

❓ FAQ

Q: Will Yellow Helmet Nerites breed in my freshwater tank?
A: No — while they may lay eggs, these will not hatch without brackish water.

Q: Are they compatible with shrimp and plants?
A: Yes! They’re perfect for planted tanks and shrimp colonies, helping to keep surfaces spotless.

Q: How many should I keep?
A: One snail per 5–10 gallons provides efficient algae control without over-cleaning.