Sun Horn Nerite Snail (Clithon corona)
The Sun Horn Nerite Snail (Clithon corona) is one of the most unique freshwater algae-eating snails available, recognized for its bright yellow and black shell pattern accented by distinctive horn-like projections. These decorative snails combine eye-catching appearance with exceptional algae-cleaning abilities, making them a favorite among aquascapers, shrimp keepers, and planted tank enthusiasts.
Despite their small size, Sun Horn Nerite Snails are highly efficient algae grazers that help keep aquarium glass, driftwood, rocks, and decorations clean. Like other Nerite species, they are completely plant-safe and cannot reproduce in freshwater aquariums, eliminating concerns about overpopulation.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Clithon corona
- Common Name: Sun Horn Nerite Snail
- Adult Size: 0.5–1 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 Sun Horn Nerite Snail?
✔ Unique horned shell appearance
✔ Bright yellow and black coloration
✔ Excellent algae and biofilm grazer
✔ Safe for planted aquariums and shrimp tanks
✔ Peaceful with fish and other invertebrates
✔ Will not overpopulate freshwater aquariums
Natural Algae Control
Sun Horn Nerite Snails actively feed on:
- Green film algae
- Brown diatom algae
- Biofilm
- Soft algae growth
- Algae on glass, rocks, driftwood, and decorations
Their constant grazing helps maintain a cleaner and healthier aquarium while reducing unwanted algae buildup.
Aquarium Setup
Sun Horn Nerite Snails thrive in mature freshwater aquariums with stable water parameters and plenty of surfaces for grazing. Calcium-rich water is important for maintaining healthy shell growth and preventing shell erosion.
A secure aquarium lid is recommended, as Nerite Snails occasionally venture above the waterline.
Diet & Feeding
While algae is their preferred food source, supplemental feeding may be beneficial in very clean aquariums.
Recommended foods include:
- Algae wafers
- Spirulina wafers
- Blanched zucchini
- Cucumber
- Spinach
- Biofilm-rich surfaces
Tank Mates
Sun Horn Nerite Snails do well with:
- Shrimp
- Tetras
- Rasboras
- Corydoras
- Guppies
- Endlers
- Platies
- Mollies
- Other peaceful community fish
Avoid aggressive snail-eating species such as puffers, large loaches, and large cichlids.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Sun Horn 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 Sun Horn Nerite Snails safe for planted tanks?
Yes. They are completely plant-safe and feed only on algae and biofilm.
How many Sun Horn Nerites should I keep?
A good guideline is approximately one snail per 5–10 gallons, depending on algae growth and aquarium size.
What makes Sun Horn Nerites unique?
Their distinctive horn-like shell projections and bright yellow-and-black coloration make them one of the most unusual and attractive Nerite species available.
Do Sun Horn Nerites eat algae?
Absolutely. They are highly effective algae eaters and help control film algae, diatoms, and biofilm naturally.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Shop healthy Sun Horn Nerite Snails at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming. These unique freshwater algae eaters are perfect for planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, nano aquariums, and peaceful community fish setups.
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