Pumpkin Red Nerite Snail (Vittina waigiensis)
The Pumpkin Red Nerite Snail (Vittina waigiensis) is a stunning freshwater algae-eating snail known for its rich orange-red shell coloration that resembles a bright pumpkin. Closely related to the popular Red Racer Nerite, this variety combines vibrant color, peaceful behavior, and exceptional algae-cleaning abilities.
Perfect for planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, nano aquariums, and community fish setups, Pumpkin Red Nerite Snails help keep aquarium surfaces clean while adding a bold splash of color to your aquascape. Because their eggs cannot hatch in freshwater, they provide natural algae control without creating unwanted snail populations.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Vittina waigiensis
- Common Name: Pumpkin Red Nerite Snail
- Adult Size: 0.75–1 inch
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Care Level: Easy
- Diet: Algae, biofilm, algae wafers, vegetables
- Lifespan: 1–3 years
- Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons
- Water Temperature: 72–80°F
- pH Range: 7.0–8.2
- Water Hardness: Moderate to Hard
- Plant Safe: Yes
- Community Safe: Yes
Why Choose a Pumpkin Red Nerite Snail?
✔ Brilliant orange-red shell coloration
✔ Excellent algae and biofilm grazer
✔ Safe for planted aquariums and shrimp tanks
✔ Peaceful with fish and invertebrates
✔ Will not overpopulate freshwater aquariums
✔ Perfect for nano tanks and aquascapes
Natural Algae Control
Pumpkin Red Nerite Snails actively consume:
- Green film algae
- Brown diatom algae
- Biofilm
- Soft algae growth
- Algae on glass, rocks, driftwood, and decorations
They are considered one of the most effective natural algae-control solutions available for freshwater aquariums.
Aquarium Setup
Pumpkin Red Nerite Snails thrive in established freshwater aquariums with stable water parameters and plenty of algae and biofilm available for grazing. Hard, mineral-rich water helps maintain strong shell growth and prevent shell erosion.
A secure aquarium lid is recommended, as Nerite Snails occasionally explore above the waterline.
Diet & Feeding
While algae is their primary food source, supplemental feeding may be needed in very clean aquariums.
Recommended foods include:
- Algae wafers
- Spirulina wafers
- Blanched zucchini
- Cucumber
- Spinach
- Biofilm-rich surfaces
Tank Mates
Pumpkin Red Nerite Snails do well with:
- Tetras
- Rasboras
- Corydoras
- Guppies
- Endlers
- Platies
- Mollies
- Shrimp
- Other peaceful community fish
Avoid aggressive snail-eating fish such as puffers, large loaches, and large cichlids.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Pumpkin Red Nerite Snail unique?
Its vivid orange-red shell coloration makes it one of the most colorful Nerite Snails available while still providing excellent algae control.
Will Pumpkin Red Nerite Snails reproduce in freshwater?
No. While they may lay eggs, the eggs require brackish water conditions to hatch and will not develop in freshwater aquariums.
Are Pumpkin Red Nerite Snails safe with shrimp and plants?
Yes. They are completely plant-safe and are commonly kept in shrimp tanks and planted aquariums.
Do Pumpkin Red Nerite Snails eat algae?
Absolutely. They actively consume film algae, diatoms, and biofilm throughout the aquarium.
Do they need calcium?
Yes. Calcium-rich water helps support healthy shell development and prevents shell erosion.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Shop healthy Pumpkin Red Nerite Snails at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming. These colorful freshwater algae eaters are perfect for planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, nano aquariums, and peaceful community fish setups.
Explore More Aquarium Products:
Out of stock
Couldn't load pickup availability
Explore Related Aquarium Products: