Betta Fish Forum banner

Mystery or Nerite snails?

3.2K views 13 replies 5 participants last post by  MiyukiW  
#1 ·
I'm new to these forums but I was wondering if I should get a mystery snail or a nerite snail? I wasn't really sure where else to ask this question so.. I have a ten gallon planted tank with a serious algae problem. The tank has a few hides and stays at a 70-80 degree temperature, its very stable in pH, nitrites, nitrates, ammonia levels, and stuff like that. My betta fish is somewhat aggressive towards fast moving things but after attacking once she usually backs off (from my experience). I've got some calcium supplements, algae wafers, and snail veggies in case it is still hungry. I won't be purchasing the snail until I've done a ton of research, and i'm absolutely sure what I want. Again i'm not entirely sure how these forums work so let me know if i'm doing something wrong. Thanks!
 
#2 ·
Welcome to the Forum! :wave:

The Nerite will do better with algae. They also have shorter eye stalks than Mystery Snails so tend not to have them chomped off. Also, Nerites only eat natural algae. They do not eat snail food, algae wafers, etc.

How long are your lights on? Is the tank near a window? If lights are on more than eight hours that could be the problem I have to use a timer because I'm not reliable. With my tank near a window I use a dark background around the sides getting natural light. It has really helped.
 
#3 ·
Thank you! (Didn't expect such a fast reply!) my tank light is usually on for 10-12 hours per day (I turn them off myself but so far I haven't left them on for more then like 12 hours) My tank is about 10 feet away from a window, but it doesn't have a background. I wouldn't want a nerite snail to go hungry because my tank won't produce enough algae. I'm unsure how much snails eat per day. So i'm thinking given my situation i'm looking at a mystery snail :). Any other advice?
 
#5 ·
Nerite snail eggs wont hatch unless they are in brackish waters, you're good. If you're okay with white eggs all over the tank then a nerite snail is perfect for ya. =) I have three of them and they are awesome glass cleaners.
 
#7 ·
I have many snails in my tank though all of them are feeder snails for my Puffer. the only ones I don't use for my puffer are the nerite snails and the mystery snails.