Description
Remarks: Batik nerites (Neritina cf. variegata) are a highly sought after species of nerite snail due to their highly variable and ornate black and yellow patterns that result in every snail being unique. Some have noted that the pattern and colors can change when the snail is moved to different water parameters, a process that is very fascinating to watch occur over time.
B-grade snails have imperfections on their shells such as small chips or scratches but none that are a threat to the snail’s health. They most likely will eventually heal and look like any other snail.
Nerite snails are excellent algae grazers and they do not reproduce in freshwater due to their larvae requiring brackish conditions, meaning you won’t be overrun with tiny snails seemingly crawling out of the substrate. They will deposit eggs on many surfaces, however, and these can be scraped off or left to naturally decay. They seem to appreciate brown algae (diatoms) most. Any tanks housing these snails should have a tight-fitting lid as they can crawl up the glass and escape. Luckily, these snails can close up their shells when out of water to slow the rate at which they dry out. Some have reported finding snails 24 hours or longer after escape that perk back up when placed back in the water.
