Helmet Nerite Snail (Neritina pulligera)

Helmet Nerite Snail—often sold as Military Helmet Nerite—is one of the toughest, most effective algae‑eating snails available for freshwater aquariums. Supplied by Aquarium Glaser, these snails are well acclimated, attractive, and ideal for planted, shrimp, and community tanks.

Species Overview

• Common name: Helmet Nerite Snail / Military Helmet Nerite
• Scientific name: Neritina pulligera 
• Family: Neritidae
• Adult size: ~2–3 cm (¾–1¼")
• Origin: Indo‑Pacific / Southeast Asia
• Supplier: Aquarium Glaser (Germany) 

Appearance

• Shell: Very hard, thick, “helmet‑shaped” shell
• Color: Dark brown, olive, charcoal, to near black
• Texture: Smooth to lightly ridged, extremely durable
• Visual appeal: Minimal patterning, bold solid coloration

Helmet Nerites are prized for their rugged, armored look and exceptional shell strength, making them more resistant to minor bumps and curious fish than many other snails. 

Algae Control & Behavior

• Algae types eaten:
  • Green film algae
  • Brown diatoms
  • Biofilm on glass, rocks, wood, and equipment
• Plant safety: ✅ 100% plant‑safe
• Temperament: Completely peaceful
• Activity: Mostly diurnal, steady grazers

Helmet Nerites are considered one of the most reliable algae grazers for aquascapes where shrimp or herbivorous fish alone aren’t enough. 

Aquarium Requirements

Tank size

• Minimum 5 gallons (19 L) per snail
• Larger, established tanks provide more natural grazing 

Water parameters

• Temperature: 22–26 °C (72–78 °F)
• pH: 7.0–8.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
• Hardness: Moderate to hard (important for shell health)
• Water quality: Ammonia & nitrite must be 0 ppm 

A lid or lowered water line is recommended—like all nerites, they may explore above the waterline.

Feeding

• Primary diet: Natural algae & biofilm
• Supplement if tank is very clean:
  • Algae wafers
  • Blanched zucchini / spinach
• Avoid overfeeding—these snails thrive best with natural grazing

Healthy shell growth benefits from adequate calcium (harder water, mineral additives, or cuttlebone if needed)

Reproduction (Important for Customers)

• Will NOT reproduce in freshwater
• May lay small white eggs on glass or décor
• Eggs will not hatch unless moved to brackish/saltwater

This makes Helmet Nerites perfect for aquarists who want algae control without snail population explosions. 

Compatibility

Safe with:

• Shrimp (Amano, Neocaridina, Caridina)
• Community fish
• Otocinclus, Corydoras
• Other nerite snails

Avoid housing with:

• Puffers
• Loaches
• Large cichlids or snail‑eating fish