Can Nerite Snail Live With Cardinal Tetra?
Nerite Snail and Cardinal Tetra are compatible. Temperature overlap 73–78°F. Both peaceful.
Conditions: Minimum 10 gallon tank.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Nerite Snail | Cardinal Tetra | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–78°F | 73–81°F | 73–78°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 7–8.5 | 4.5–7 | 7–7 ✓ |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | Both peaceful ✓ |
| Max Size | 1" | 2" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 5 gal | 10 gal | 10 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Herbivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | beginner | intermediate | — |
Tank Requirements for Nerite Snail + Cardinal Tetra
To keep Nerite Snail and Cardinal Tetra together, you need at minimum a 10 gallon tank. Cardinal Tetra should be kept in a school of 6+. Provide adequate filtration, stable temperature with a heater, and hiding spots to reduce stress.
Species Profiles
Nerite Snail
Neritina spp.
Nerite snails are the best algae-eating snails for freshwater aquariums. They come in beautiful patterns (zebra, tiger, horned, olive) and will not reproduce in freshwater — making them the ideal pest-free algae cleanup crew. A single nerite can keep a 5-gallon tank virtually algae-free.
Full care guide →Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi
Cardinal tetras look similar to neon tetras but have a red stripe that extends the entire length of their body (vs only the back half in neons). They prefer softer, more acidic water and are slightly more delicate, but their deeper coloration makes them highly sought after.
Full care guide →