Compatibility Overview
Molly and Nerite Snail can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 55-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.
| Factor | Molly | Nerite Snail | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–82°F | 65–85°F | ✅ 72–82°F |
| pH Range | 7.5–8.5 | 6.5–8.5 | ✅ 7.5–8.5 |
| Temperament | peaceful | peaceful | ✅ Compatible |
| Adult Size | 4 in | 1 in | ❌ 4× difference |
| Min. Group | 3+ | 1+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 55 gallons (for both species) | — | |
✅ Compatibility Positives
⚠️ Caution Points
Species Profiles
Molly — Poecilia sphenops
Hardy livebearers that prefer alkaline, hard water — sometimes slightly brackish. Prolific breeders; peaceful community fish.
Nerite Snail — Nerita spp.
Outstanding algae-eating snails that do not reproduce in freshwater. Extremely hardy and compatible with virtually all peaceful fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Molly live with Nerite Snail?
Yes, in a well-planned setup. Molly and Nerite Snail can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 55-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.
What tank size do I need for Molly and Nerite Snail together?
A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for keeping Molly and Nerite Snail together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both Molly and Nerite Snail?
72–82°F
Is a Molly aggressive toward a Nerite Snail?
Molly is peaceful and Nerite Snail is peaceful. Significant size difference (4 in vs 1 in) — the larger species may out-compete for food or intimidate the smaller.