Our Guide To Keeping Red Racer Nerite Snail
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Vittina waigiensis
- Common name: Red Racer Nerite Snail
- Family: Neritidae
- Origin: Freshwater and brackish river systems of Southeast Asia
- Adult length: 2.5 to 3 cm
- Lifespan: 1 to 2 years
- Diet: Herbivore
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
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Tank Setup:
- Red Racer Nerite Snails require a stable, cycled aquarium with abundant biofilm and algae for grazing.
- Use smooth rocks, driftwood, and glass surfaces to encourage natural foraging behavior.
- Ensure the tank has a secure lid, as these snails may attempt to climb out of the water.
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Water Parameters:
- pH: 7.0 to 8.5
- Temperature: 22 to 28°C (72 to 82°F)
- Hardness: 6 to 12 dGH — helps maintain a healthy shell
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- Red Racer Nerite Snails prefer clean, well-oxygenated water with gentle to moderate flow.
- Use a quality filter to keep ammonia and nitrite levels at 0 ppm.
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Diet:
- Red Racer Nerite Snails feed on algae, biofilm, and soft detritus.
- Supplement their diet with algae wafers or blanched vegetables like spinach and zucchini if algae levels are low.
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Tank mates:
- Compatible with peaceful community fish, dwarf shrimp, and other small invertebrates.
- Avoid keeping with aggressive fish such as cichlids or loaches that may harm or harass them.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Red Racer Nerite Snails are solitary and peaceful, known for their vivid red and yellow striped shells.
- They do not breed in freshwater, making them a great option for algae control without risk of overpopulation.