14 Best Snails & Invertebrates for Freshwater Aquariums

Invertebrates are animals that have no spine or skull, such as worms, spiders, jellyfish, butterflies, and shrimp. Aquatic invertebrates live in both freshwater and saltwater.

Most of these invertebrates live in saltwater, like crabs, sponges, and corals (not to mention jellyfish!) Freshwater invertebrates are more typically snails and shrimp (mollusks and crustaceans).

There are also some freshwater invertebrates considered live food (such as daphnias, moinas, mosquito larvae, etc.). Few of these are considered ornamental. We get it: We’re not exactly running out to the store to decorate our tanks with mosquito larvae, either…

Since this post focuses on freshwater invertebrates, you have two main characters to choose from: Shrimps and snails.

Luckily for freshwater aquarists, there are enough species and types of these animals easily available in aquarium stores and via internet sellers to keep it interesting.

Many can even be kept together, such as caridina shrimps and ramshorn snails, which is common and beautiful.

This class of animals has around 5,000 described species, a few of which are created in aquariums.

The big problem is that they’re still not studied often scientifically, so there are several gaps in the biology of these animals.

Many aquarists are scared just to hear the possibility of having snails in their aquarium, because these mollusks can dominate your aquarium in a short time. But if you choose the right species and offer unfavorable conditions (like preventing food leftovers or organic matter dispersed in your tank), they won’t take over, and the population will remain in balance.

Interestingly, many mollusks have an aquarium name, but not a scientific one. And many that are commonly called one name are actually several species. This complicates our life as an aquarist a little, but those who keep these animals in aquariums are specialists and know how to differentiate these animals better than some scientists.

Golden apple snails are the most popular snail species in the hobby, of the genus pomacea. They’re also one of the most confusing, because numerous species are known as the “golden apple snail.”

Among the most common species are pomacea diffusa and pomacea canaliculata. It’s important to differentiate the two species for one simple reason: P. canaliculata feeds on live plants and therefore can’t live safely in a planted aquarium.

P. diffusa, on the other hand, will hardly eat live plants if it has any other food source (such as algae or food scraps).

For this reason, if you have an aquarium with plants, it’s highly recommended that you select and make sure you’re getting p. diffusa.

You can differentiate between the two species by observing the shape of the shell. P. diffusa has the angles of the junction of the opening of its shell at 90º. In P. canaliculata the angle is less than 90º.

Regardless of the species, these animals have the same care requirements and behaviors. They are peaceful animals, which can be kept with fish of any size. They feed on food and any organic remains that they find in the aquarium.

You should always keep the aquarium covered, as they come out of the water, especially during the breeding season: The female lays her eggs just above the surface of the water, which makes it easy to control her population (you can just remove the egg mass).

The ideal temperature for these shellfish is between 77 and 84°F, and the pH is between 6.5 and 8.0.

These snails are popularly called “colombian ramshorns apple snail.” They have a classic snail shell (curling in on itself) of light beige color, with dark lines that accompany the shell transversely.

It’s a species of snail that has become increasingly popular in the hobby, mostly because of its role as a biological controller of algae, along with eggs of other unwanted snails.

Not everyone is running to add them to their aquarium, thought, as they’re known to devour plants, as well as any decaying organic matter.

The ideal temperature for these mollusks is between 75 and 80°F, and the pH is between 7.0 and 7.8.

Rabbit snails are a highly ornamental and safe species for planted aquariums.

They’re generally quite hardy in aquariums, although hardiness seems to vary from individual to individual. In captivity, individuals already bred in captivity tend to be tolerant of different water parameters and more active than wild specimens.

This snail lives well both alone and in groups, and as they are hermaphrodites, it’s enough to have two specimens that will reproduce – And it is a viviparous snail. Every two months, the adult female gives birth to a single mollusk encased in a milky white cyst. This cyst is eaten by the mother and the baby snail inside it, releasing the newborn snail.

This species grows very slowly. It takes about 8-9 months for bred “puppies” to reach a size of about 3.5 centimeters. That’s why these snails have high prices.

The ideal temperature for these mollusks is between 77 and 86°F, and the pH is between 7.5 and 8.5.

These snails are excellent at algae control: They are small but do damage to algae. There are two main species sold in stores: Neritina virginea and neritina zebra.

They’re both famous for their varied patterns and colors, and bright shells. The zebra nerite variety has a pattern of bands on its shells (which give the species its name). So, in addition to being great algae eater snails, they add a lot of beauty to the aquarium.

They have one big problem, however. They usually lay numerous white eggs throughout the aquarium, which need to be removed manually. Although the eggs don’t hatch (for that they would need brackish water) these white dots are very visible and take away from the visual appeal of the tanks, bothering some aquarists.

The ideal temperature for these mollusks is between 71 and 82°F, and the pH is between 7.2 and 8.5.

The snails of this family are perfect for planted aquariums, since they don’t touch plants (except for dead ones) yet will still consume algae and food scraps, among other debris.

Ramshorn snails are very interesting because of their color variations, the most famous being red ramshorns and blue ramshorns.

Animals of different genera and species are referrred to as ramshorn snails; Note that most of the red ramshorns are of the biomphalaria genus, and the true ramshorn belongs to the planorbella genus (true ramshorn).

However, in terms of appearance and behavior, they are very similar.

Blue ramshorn snails are usually of the planorbella duryi species, that is, true ramshorns.

As with other snails, care must be taken when breeding the animal. Their multiplication rate is not that great, but if there is too much organic material in the aquarium, you could face an infestation.

If you don’t want an aquarium full of ramshorns, beware of excess debris.

The ideal temperature for these mollusks is between 75 and 82°F, and the pH is between 7.0 and 8.0.

Shrimp are probably the most common invertebrate in domestic freshwater aquariums, having grown in popularity in recent years.

Different species have different uses: Some are great algae eaters, used in planted aquariums, and others are kept only for their highly ornamental character.

The red cherry is arguably the most popular ornamental shrimp of all, due to its beauty, easy breeding, and its ability to live in many different parameters of water.

It’s a common starting point for those interested in ornamental (particularly dwarf) shrimp, since it’s easy to care for and super hardy. You can learn a lot from caring for this shrimp, and their ability to reproduce easily means that even if you fail and they die, you can recover a population quickly. 

Another compelling reason why it’s a good idea to start with these shrimp is because they’re among the most inexpensive. Make your mistakes with a cheap shrimp, not an expensive one.

Neocaridina davidi is a dwarf shrimp: Females reach a maximum size of 1.5 in. Since the 1990s it has been used in aquariums, initially in Taiwan, and later spreading throughout China and Japan. This use predates the development of ornamental forms: In the beginning, it was used as an algae controller (similar to amano), or as live food.

Very robust, red cherry shrimp can tolerate different water parameters. They can be grown in a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0 (ideally 7.0 to 7.4), in both soft and hard water, in temperatures from 68 to 86°F, and on a variety of substrates.

As a rule, the red cherry can live in most freshwater aquariums that do not contain predators. However, if the idea is to breed them, a monospecies tank is best.

Some people have kept this species even in lakes and aquariums without filters, but it is not recommended. In other words, red cherry is the toughest shrimp for freshwater aquariums.

Another of the most popular shrimp in the aquarium hobby is the red crystal shrimp, sometimes called “red bee.” Its color and difficulty are what make this shrimp so desired by both serious breeders and novices.

Once you see this species live, you’ll understand why so many aquarists are passionate about this shrimp: Its coloring is not matched by any other freshwater shrimp.

As is often the case, there’s some controversy around the true origin of this shrimp. It certainly has its origins in Japan in the 80s/90s, something often proudly emphasized by Japanese creators. It’s also worth mentioning that most of these shrimp are hybrids.

Red crystal prefers soft, acidic water. Optimum quality water is also mandatory, as well as for all shrimp in the aquarium. However, red crystal can be the most vulnerable shrimp of all when placed in degraded water conditions.

Regular partial water changes are mandatory to maintain this species. The temperature should not be higher than 78°F and the pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5. The GH should be between 4 to 6 and the KH between 1-2.

You must keep the red crystal under specific conditions. Extremes in any of the mentioned water parameters should be avoided.

One of the few true algae-eating shrimp, the red-nosed shrimp became an ornamental species as a result. In nature, they inhabit coastal areas of brackish water, but they adapt quickly to freshwater. However, it’s impossible for them to reproduce in freshwater because the larva needs brackish water to develop.

In addition to algae and the biofilm formed on the surface of aquariums, you can offer aquarium red-nosed shrimp feed and also fresh or blanched vegetables, such as cucumber and zucchini.

This is a species highly adaptable to different values, but it exhibits its perfect conditions when kept in a pH of 6.5 to 7.5, a temperature of 68 to 78°F, in water with an average hardness. As long as you avoid extremes, they’ll live well.

As the name implies, these animals display a reddish coloration on their rostrum (nose). Males have different colors than females, which are more transparent.

One of the newer species in the shrimp hobby, the caridina cardinal (Caridina dennerli) has quickly become one of the most sought-after shrimp by aquarists. It is a magnificent animal, displaying a dark reddish pink or slightly reddish color with white dots spreading down the sides of the shrimp.

It’s not a beginner species, and only experienced aquarists should try to keep or breed this shrimp.

Due to the white appearance of the front legs, this species is sometimes also called “white gloves red shrimp,” or “white socks shrimp.” Another popular name is “Matano blue dot shrimp.”

Its scientific name is a tribute to the German aquarium company Dennerle, who financed research on species endemic to the lakes of Sulawesi.

As with all Sulawesi shrimp, it is highly recommended that cardinal shrimp be kept at a temperature of around 77°F. Any lower value can kill individuals of this species.

I also recommend that these species be kept in aquariums with hard water and neutral pH, of around 7.0.

Many aquarists try to reproduce the environment of these shrimp by using rocks for aesthetics and algae on their surface. In a natural environment, cardinal shrimp live among rocks and forage for food.

Some use pieces of coral to make the water harder. Sand is also a common choice to use in the aquarium.

The cardinal shrimp is not shy. It’s often seen at the bottom of the aquarium and seems to prefer scraping rocks in search of food.

The vast majority of cardinal shrimp I see spend almost all of their time on rocks covered in algae and on the sides of glass looking for food.

Cardinal shrimp appear to enjoy the company of other species, and they’re not even remotely aggressive. Word on the street is that when Sulawesi snails are added to their aquarium, they even become more active. 

Maybe this makes them feel more at home with snails found in the wild. They also dig through snail shells in search of food.

The Takashi Amano shrimp got its name thanks to the well-known aquarist of the same name who often used the shrimp in the aquarium as algae eaters. However, many people do not know that this species is difficult to reproduce and that practically all are taken from the wild and sold to aquarists. Captive breeding has been achieved but it’s rare.

Their popularity in the world is due to their discoverer, the aquarist Takashi Amano, and that they are great algae eaters also attracts aquarists of planted aquariums.

Unfortunately, most aquarists who buy them are unaware that they cannot breed in fresh water and are frustrated to see that pregnant females with multiple eggs never produce young.

It is not uncommon for the Takashi Amano Shrimp to die soon after being introduced to the aquarium.

Virtually all Amano shrimp are taken from the wild and are not used to captive conditions. In addition, a lack of food can cause death. Most first-time aquarists mistakenly think that they are exclusively algae eaters and do not require food after being introduced.

You should keep them in water with a pH ranging from 6.5 to 7.8. They are resistant to a wide temperature range, being able to live between 68 and 82°F.

This shrimp, scientifically called atya gabonensis, occurs on the Atlantic side of Africa and South America. In Africa, it can be found from Senegal to Zaire (mainly in the Niger and Volta river basins), and in America, it occurs in Suriname, Venezuela, and Brazil (Piauí, Alagoas, Sergipe, and São Paulo).

It lives in rivers with fast currents and high concentrations of oxygen, usually with a rocky substrate. Their larvae spend part of their life cycle in brackish water; Thus, they only occur in rivers connected to the sea. For the same reason, you won’t usually see them in places far from the coast.

African filter shrimp are large and robust (males reach 5.5 in, females 3.5 in) with a relatively short and bulky body compared to other shrimp, and disproportionately small heads. (Don’t tell them we said that! 🙂 

The first two pairs of legs are adapted to filter water and capture suspended food, with fan-shaped tufts of hair at the ends. The first ambulatory legs are thick and with short spines, to anchor themselves firmly to the substrate, as they live in places with strong currents.

It is a relatively sensitive species, especially concerning water hardness, and lives best in moderate to high water hardness (GH 6-20º). The ideal temperature is between 73 and 82°F, pH of 6.5 to 7.6. Like other shrimp, they are very sensitive to nitrogen compounds, and heavy metals are deadly for these animals.

Being peaceful, they don’t fight with other animals or with shrimp of the same species. They become vulnerable after ecdysis when they can be attacked by more aggressive animals. Some authors describe a gregarious behavior, especially in young individuals.

They exhibit nocturnal habits, especially adults. The aquarium should provide hiding places for them to hide during the day. They can dig shallow burrows in the substrate, usually over rocks. They are “clumsy” and can uproot plants, and mess up the tank layout. But hey, at least they’re having a good time.. 🙂 

The harlequin shrimp originates from Sulawesi, Indonesia, and has a unique and striking color. It is the smallest of all the newly discovered Sulawesi shrimp. Harlequin shrimp are also extremely shy until they get used to their new surroundings.

Once acclimated to the aquarium, it will show up more often and display its true coloration.

In fact, harlequin shrimp are two very similar and sympatric species, caridina woltereckae and caridina spongicola. Virtually all shrimp raised in aquariums are of the first species.

The harlequin shrimp is also known as the “celebes beauty shrimp,” although it’s a less and less used name. C. spongicola is also called “Spongicola Shrimp” or “Rainbow Shrimp.” Just remember that there is a species of marine ornamental shrimp with the same popular name (Hymenocera picta), so as not to confuse the two. 

As with all Sulawesi prawns, it is highly recommended that harlequin prawns be kept at a temperature of around 77°F. Any value below this can kill them.

It’s also recommended that these species be kept in aquariums with hard water and a pH of 7.0 to 8.2. Many aquarists keep their Sulawesi aquariums at a pH of 8.0.

As mentioned earlier, the harlequin shrimp can be quite a shy species. They can hide in the shadows and sometimes not appear. I attribute this behavior to the fact that the harlequin shrimp are not comfortable in their new environment, the aquarium.

Once this species acclimatizes and is not afraid of predators, it shows itself in more open places. If you notice that your harlequin shrimp often hides, it’s a sign that it needs more time to get comfortable or that your aquarium parameters are not suitable for the species. You must keep the water clean, always in good quality, and the water parameters as stated at the top of this page.

The caridina spongicola lives and feeds in the porosities of the freshwater sponges that exist in the lake, hence its name. They are not parasites but rather use the walls of sponges to feed on algae or particles they find, basically cleaning them up.

There is little information about the need for sponges in aquarium breeding of this species. Feeding them in captivity without the sponge seems to be no problem, but it’s a topic that needs further confirmation.

The green lace shrimp, also called “mini bamboo shrimp” (Atyoida pilipes) is known to be one of the smallest shrimp species, reaching a maximum of 2.1 inches.

These small shrimp have a very interesting behavior: Staying directly in the water flow, and feeding on suspended particles in the water column.

They are peaceful beings that get along well with other species. Its reproduction in captivity is difficult, as the larvae need brackish water to develop. Its color pattern is variable, presenting a greenish glow over its transparent body.

You should keep them at a pH of 6.0 to 8.0, gH of 6-15, and a temperature of 71 to 82°F.

The blue pearl shrimp is directly linked to the snowball shrimp. Both were genetically selected by Ulf Gottschalk, a shrimp farmer in Germany.

Neocaridina palmata is a very common species of dwarf shrimp found in a large area of ​​southern China, south of the Yangtze River. It also occurs in Vietnam.

In China, it also commonly inhabits caves. It’s found in clear streams, lakes, and ponds.

They are very common in these places, and quite prolific. Residents collect them in large numbers and sell them for food, fresh or dehydrated.

The blue pearl shrimp has long been bred as an ornamental shrimp, especially in its two best-known forms, blue pearl and snowball. Until recently, these shrimp were believed to be neocaridina zhangjiajiensis species. But work done in 2012 by Dr. Werner Klotz using mitochondrial DNA (mDNA) analysis showed that it is neocaridina palmata.

In nature, these shrimp are found in relatively wide parameters, which explains their robustness: They’re easily adaptable to various conditions.

This shrimp is collected in places with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 and grow best in slightly alkaline water with medium-high hardness.

The temperature can range from 68 to 86°F. Make sure you have enough oxygen dissolved in the water if the temperature is high!

While fish might get all the glory when it comes to hobby aquariums, there are plenty of other curious creatures that delight in the underwater invertebrate world. For example, the blue ramshorn snail is a flashy and colorful addition to a freshwater aquarium.

But these backbone-less creatures aren’t just for show: They have very useful applications, such as being hardy algae-eaters like the zebra nerite.

Remember that even the invertebrates that actively eat algae still need to be fed regular food! Also, do your research prior to purchasing because there are still many types of shrimp and snails that are difficult to breed in captivity (if that’s what you’re going for!)

Don’t overlook invertebrates when putting together your next aquarium!