Neritina pulligera sp. “Beluga” Nerite Snail
Looking for a low-maintenance clean-up crew with a unique look?
The Neritina pulligera “Beluga” is one of the rarest and most striking nerite snails available in the hobby.
Unlike common zebra or tiger nerites, the Beluga variety features a smooth, matte-black dome shell, giving it a minimalistic, premium aesthetic that blends perfectly into nature-style and Iwagumi aquascapes. Their compact body and glossy deep charcoal tone make them resemble miniature beluga whales—hence the name.
✨ Why Aquarists Love Them
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🧽 Algae Powerhouse: Excellent at removing brown diatoms, green film, soft algae, and light biofilm.
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🚫 No Overpopulation: Requires brackish conditions to reproduce — they will not breed in freshwater.
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💧 Hardy & Adaptable: Thrives in a wide range of water parameters.
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🪨 Perfect for Nano Tanks & Aquascapes: Gentle on plants and safe with shrimp.
📏 Size:
Approx. 1–2.5 cm (varies by age)
🧪 Water Parameters
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 22–28°C (72–82°F) |
| pH | 7.0–8.5 |
| GH | 6–12 dGH |
| KH | 3–10 dKH |
| Tank Size | 10+ gallons recommended |
🍽 Diet
Primarily feeds on soft algae, diatoms, and biofilm.
For supplemental feeding:
• Spirulina wafers
• Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)
• Shrimp pellets / algae pellets
✔️ Safe With
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Shrimp (Neocaridina & Caridina)
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Community fish
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Live plants
Notes
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Nerites may explore outside the tank when searching for new surfaces. A tight lid is recommended.
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Shell coloration may deepen or lighten depending on age, calcium availability, tank conditions, and lighting.