Zebra Nerite Snail Shell (also known as Tiger Nerite)
Phylum: Mollusca, Class: Gastropoda, Order: Neritida, Family: Neritidae, Genus: Vittina, Species: Vittina coromandeliana · Neritidae (Nerite family) · Gastropod (univalve), whole shell, ovate to globose shape
Species
Vittina coromandeliana (or closely related Neritina species)
Shell Type
Gastropod (univalve), whole shell, ovate to globose shape
Family
Neritidae (Nerite family)
Size
Approximately 0.5 inches (12-15 mm) in length, which is typical for a juvenile or small adult specimen of this nerite species. Adults generally reach up to 1 inch.
Color & Pattern
Brownish-tan base with fine, wavy, zebra-like or reticulated darker brown markings across the dorsal surface. The spire is extremely low and offset. Colors appear natural with a glossy finish.
Rarity
Common
Habitat
Inhabits brackish water estuaries, mangrove swamps, and freshwater streams near the coast, usually found crawling on rocks, wood, or submerged vegetation.
Geographic Range
Indo-Pacific region, including Southeast Asia, Indonesia, and coastal islands.
Description
A small, sturdy, globular gastropod shell featuring a low spire and a spacious, semicircular aperture. The exterior showcases an attractive network of intricate brown patterns over a lighter background. The surface is smooth with fine growth lines, and the shell is exceptionally robust to withstand strong currents and wave action in freshwater and brackish environments.
Key Features
Extremely low, nearly flat spire, smooth glossy finish, ovate-globular shape, and characteristic dark zig-zag or reticulated banding patterns over a brownish-tan background.
Collector Value
Low to moderate value. Commonly kept by aquarium hobbyists rather than traditional shell collectors, typically valued at a few dollars per specimen.
Condition Notes
Good condition, intact whole shell with natural coloration well-preserved and minimal wear on the apex.
Interesting Facts
Nerites are famous for their ability to transition between freshwater and saltwater habitats. They are also popular in freshwater aquariums as efficient algae eaters, and they lay hard, sesame-seed-like egg capsules on hard surfaces (though the eggs rarely hatch in freshwater).
Ecological Role
Acts as an important algae grazer in estuarine and freshwater ecosystems, helping to control microalgae growth and serving as a food source for fish and crustaceans.
Similar Species
Vittina waigiensis (Red Onion Nerite) and Neritina natalensis (Zebra Nerite), distinguished primarily by variations in color banding, vibrancy, and native geographic distribution.
Beach Finding Tips
Look along brackish river mouths, mangrove roots, and muddy-rocky banks in tropical Indo-Pacific regions, particularly during low tide.