Onion Snails

Onion Snails, also known as red onion nerite snails, are unique freshwater snails known for their rounded red and brown shells, marked with fine dark lines that resemble the layers of an onion. Our onion snails for sale grow to around 2 to 2.5cm and add an interesting visual element to any aquarium while also helping to maintain a clean environment by consuming algae and detritus.

Location

Like other nerite snails, Onion Snails come from coastal rivers and streams, where their eggs and larvae develop in brackish water. In aquariums, they do well in conditions that mimic their natural habitat, with clean, well oxygenated water and surfaces for grazing.

Diet

Onion Snails are primarily herbivores, feeding on algae, biofilm, and decaying plant matter. They are excellent at keeping your tank clean by consuming algae and waste. To supplement their diet, you can offer algae wafers or blanched vegetables like spinach or courgette to keep them healthy.

Care

Onion Snails prefer a water temperature range of 22°C to 28°C and a pH of 7.0 to 8.0. They need stable water conditions, so regular water changes are crucial. Avoid using medications containing copper, as they can harm the snails.

Habitat

To create an ideal habitat for your Onion Snails, use a fine substrate such as sand or smooth gravel. Incorporating plants, rocks, and driftwood provides surfaces for grazing. These snails also enjoy exploring vertical surfaces, so offering climbing opportunities is a good idea. Ensure the aquarium is securely covered to prevent escapes.

Breeding

Onion Snails will not breed in a freshwater aquarium. Females may lay small white eggs on hard surfaces, but these need brackish water to hatch, so the snails will not overrun your tank.

Buy more and save, with multi-buy discounts from 5 snails. See also our zebra nerite snail and rabbit snail, or browse all our aquarium snails.

Shipping Information

We take care to ensure your order arrives in excellent condition and ready to settle into your aquarium. All orders are shipped with tracking, and the cut-off time for same-day dispatch is 4 pm.

Orders containing dry goods, shrimp, snails or plants are dispatched Monday to Friday via Royal Mail for fast, reliable delivery. Livestock, in particular live fish and invertebrates, are dispatched Monday to Wednesday only, using an approved overnight courier, to avoid weekend delays and ensure safe and timely delivery.

Track Your Order

You will receive a tracking number by email when we begin processing your order for shipping. The selected courier will provide updates on delivery only through their tracking page.

During colder weather, heat packs are added when needed. Livestock orders are carefully packed in insulated boxes to help maintain a stable temperature throughout transit.

View our Shipping Policy